5 iconic dishes featuring cilantro
What's the story
Cilantro, with its fresh and vibrant flavor, is a staple in many African cuisines. It adds a unique touch to several traditional dishes across the continent. From stews to salads, cilantro is a versatile herb that elevates the taste of numerous recipes. Here are five iconic African dishes where cilantro plays an essential role, showcasing the herb's importance in African culinary traditions.
Dish 1
Moroccan lentil soup
Moroccan lentil soup is a hearty dish that combines lentils with tomatoes, spices, and fresh cilantro. The soup is often served as an appetizer or light meal and is known for its rich flavor profile. Cilantro adds brightness to the earthy lentils and spices like cumin and coriander. This dish is popular for its comforting qualities and nutritional benefits.
Dish 2
Ethiopian tomato salad
Ethiopian tomato salad is a refreshing side dish made with ripe tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and plenty of fresh cilantro. Dressed simply with lemon juice or olive oil, this salad highlights the natural sweetness of tomatoes while balancing it with the herb's sharpness. It's often served alongside main courses as a cooling complement.
Dish 3
Nigerian Jollof rice
Jollof rice is a beloved West African dish that features rice cooked in a rich tomato sauce with spices like thyme and bay leaves. In Nigeria, cilantro is frequently added to enhance its flavor profile further. The herb's citrusy notes cut through the richness of the sauce, adding an aromatic element that makes every bite delightful.
Dish 4
South African chakalaka
Chakalaka is a spicy vegetable relish originating from South Africa, usually served as a side with bread or rice dishes. It consists of various vegetables such as carrots, beans, cabbage, and bell peppers, seasoned with chili powder, ginger, garlic, and other spices, including freshly chopped cilantro leaves. These give it an extra layer of complexity without overpowering the other ingredients present within the mix itself.
Dish 5
Egyptian falafel sandwiches
Falafel sandwiches are a popular street food option found throughout Egypt, where crispy chickpea patties are stuffed inside pita bread, along with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, tahini sauce, pickles, and, of course, freshly chopped parsley and mint leaves. But most importantly, a generous sprinkling of finely diced raw green tops of the coriander plant (cilantro), which adds a refreshing crunchiness to the overall experience, making it even more enjoyable to eat on the go.