Vietnamese Cilantro Recipes: A Culinary Journey with Vietnamese Coriander
Guide or Summary：Understanding Vietnamese CilantroHealth Benefits of Vietnamese CilantroPopular Vietnamese Cilantro RecipesIf you're on the hunt for an exci……
Guide or Summary：
- Understanding Vietnamese Cilantro
- Health Benefits of Vietnamese Cilantro
- Popular Vietnamese Cilantro Recipes
If you're on the hunt for an exciting way to jazz up your meals, look no further than Vietnamese Cilantro Recipes. Known as Rau Ram in Vietnam, this herb is a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine, offering a unique peppery flavor that can transform any dish. In this article, we'll delve deep into the world of Vietnamese Cilantro Recipes, exploring its uses, benefits, and some mouth-watering recipes that you can try at home.
Understanding Vietnamese Cilantro
Vietnamese cilantro, also known as Vietnamese coriander, is a perennial plant that thrives in warm, tropical climates. Its scientific name is Persicaria odorata, and it belongs to the Polygonaceae family. Unlike regular cilantro, Vietnamese cilantro has elongated leaves and a more robust, spicy flavor. It's commonly used in Vietnamese, Thai, and Cambodian cuisines.
Health Benefits of Vietnamese Cilantro
Before diving into Vietnamese Cilantro Recipes, it's worth noting the health benefits this herb offers. Vietnamese cilantro is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is known to aid digestion. Additionally, it has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, from stomach issues to skin conditions.
Popular Vietnamese Cilantro Recipes
1. **Vietnamese Cilantro Chicken Salad (Goi Ga)**
One of the most popular Vietnamese Cilantro Recipes is the Vietnamese Cilantro Chicken Salad. This dish is a perfect blend of shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing.
**Ingredients:**
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup thinly sliced cabbage
- 1/2 cup julienned carrots
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onions
- 1/4 cup chopped Vietnamese cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped mint
- 1/4 cup chopped Thai basil
- 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts
**Dressing:**
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, thinly sliced
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cabbage, carrots, onions, and herbs.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and chili.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well.
4. Garnish with roasted peanuts before serving.
2. **Vietnamese Cilantro Soup (Canh Chua Rau Ram)**
Another classic in the realm of Vietnamese Cilantro Recipes is the Vietnamese Cilantro Soup. This soup is a harmonious mix of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors.
- 1 liter chicken broth
- 200 grams fish fillets, cut into chunks
- 1 tomato, cut into wedges
- 1 pineapple, cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup tamarind paste
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup chopped Vietnamese cilantro
- 2 red chilies, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. Add the fish fillets, tomato, pineapple, tamarind paste, fish sauce, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the bean sprouts, Vietnamese cilantro, Thai basil, and chilies. Cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
3. **Vietnamese Cilantro Spring Rolls**
Spring rolls are a versatile and delightful addition to any Vietnamese Cilantro Recipes collection. These fresh rolls are packed with vibrant flavors and are perfect for a light meal or appetizer.
- Rice paper wrappers
- 200 grams cooked shrimp, sliced in half lengthwise
- 1 cup cooked rice vermicelli
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup julienned carrots
- 1/4 cup julienned cucumber
**Dipping Sauce:**
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
1. Dip a rice paper wrapper in warm water for a few seconds to soften.
2. Place the wrapper on a flat surface and layer the shrimp, rice vermicelli, lettuce, carrots, cucumber, and herbs.
3. Roll the wrapper tightly, folding in the sides as you go.
4. In a small bowl, mix the hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, and chili for the dipping sauce.
5. Serve the spring rolls with the dipping sauce.
Incorporating Vietnamese Cilantro Recipes into your culinary repertoire is a fantastic way to explore new flavors and enhance your meals. Whether you're making a refreshing chicken salad, a tangy soup, or fresh spring rolls, Vietnamese cilantro adds a unique and delightful twist. So, the next time you're at the market, pick up some Vietnamese cilantro and embark on a culinary journey that your taste buds will thank you for.