Germans call cilantro Koriander. This term refers to both the leafy herb, which is known as cilantro in the Americas, and the seeds, which are called coriander in English-speaking countries.
Understanding "Koriander" in German
The German word "Koriander" (pronounced: koh-ree-AN-der) is a versatile term encompassing various parts of the Coriandrum sativum plant. Unlike English, which often differentiates between "cilantro" (leaves) and "coriander" (seeds), German uses a single word for both.
Here's how the term is categorized:
| Category | German Term | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General | Koriander [m] | The general term for the plant and its culinary uses. The "[m]" indicates it's a masculine noun. |
| Botany | Koriander [m] | Used in a botanical context to refer to the plant itself. |
When used in recipes or culinary discussions, context usually clarifies whether the leaves or seeds are being referred to. For instance, "frischer Koriander" (fresh Koriander) would typically imply the leaves, while "Koriandersamen" (Koriander seeds) would specify the seeds.
Usage in German Cuisine
While not as ubiquitous as in some other cuisines like Mexican or Thai, cilantro (Koriander) is increasingly popular in German cooking, especially with the growing interest in international dishes.
- Fresh Koriander (Blätter): The fresh leaves are used to add a distinctive, pungent flavor to dishes.
- Often found in Asian-inspired stir-fries and curries.
- Popular in some modern interpretations of German salads and marinades.
- Used as a garnish for soups and stews.
- Koriander Seeds (Samen): The dried seeds have a different, more citrusy and warm flavor.
- A common spice in many bread recipes, like rye bread.
- Used in pickling brines, especially for cucumbers and gherkins.
- An essential ingredient in some traditional German sausages and meat preparations.
The singular term "Koriander" simplifies communication for German speakers, relying on context or additional descriptive words to specify the part of the plant.
