Coriander Seeds - True Coriander and Aromatic Alternatives

Coriander is one of the oldest documented spice plants known to humankind. Today, however, the name coriander refers not only to the classic species Coriandrum sativum, but also to several aromatically similar plants that play a comparable culinary role in different regions of the world.

True coriander (Coriandrum sativum) belongs to the Apiaceae family and is used both for its fresh leaves and its aromatic seeds. It was already cultivated and traded in Bronze Age settlements, in ancient Greece and in ancient Egypt.

In addition, there are so-called coriander-like plants which are not botanically related to Coriandrum sativum but share a comparable aroma. These include Mexican coriander or culantro (Eryngium foetidum) as well as Bolivian coriander, also known as papalo (Porophyllum ruderale ssp. macrocephalum). These species originate from Central and South America and are an integral part of regional cuisines there.

While true coriander prefers cooler temperatures, papalo and culantro are significantly more heat-loving and develop a stronger, more intense flavour. They are particularly suitable for summer dishes and as alternatives in regions with hot climatic conditions.

This category therefore combines classic spice coriander with aromatic alternatives - for garden, balcony and diverse culinary styles.