Harvesting Coriander - Coriander Tea

If your cilantro is calling it quits for the season, don't forget to harvest the coriander seeds for winter use. Shake the seed heads into a paper bag, allow them to dry completely in a cool, dark place, and store them in an airtight container.

Medicinal Uses for Coriander

Coriander seed is a powerful, natural anti-bacterial agent. It can be used to flavor both sweet and savory dishes, and has been included frequently as an ingredient in curing meat.

It makes an herbal tea that's effective in treating minor stomach upsets. It has also been used successfully to treat colic (Check with your doctor before trying).

Preserving and Getting the Most Flavor From Coriander

For added flavor, roast coriander seeds in a single layer on a cookie sheet in a 400 degree F oven until they turn brown (twenty to thirty minutes).

Store coriander seeds in the freezer. Like nuts and sesame seeds, they contain oils that will cause them to spoil eventually. Keeping them in the freezer will extend their useful life.

Coriander Tea

1 teaspoon crushed coriander seeds
1 C boiling water

Allow the tea to steep for ten minutes before drinking.