Cilantro Vs Celery: The Spicy, Flavorful Fight We’ve All Been Waiting For
Cilantro and celery are two flavorful herbs and vegetables that are commonly used to add more flavor to many dishes.
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But do you know how they differ from each other?
Don’t worry, this article will give you a closer look at the differences and similarities between cilantro and celery and you can decide which one is better for you.
Let’s check it out!
What is special about cilantro?
Cilantro, or Chinese parsley, or coriander, is an annual herb in the family Apioideae.
Cilantro is commonly known to many people around the world.
It has been used for centuries in food preparation and is considered one of Nature’s most flavorful herbs.
The fresh leaves are generally used for cooking as a garnish or a herb to enhance the flavor of the dish.
Meanwhile, the seeds, which are often dried, provide a unique citrusy flavor to dishes like salsa or salad dressings.
Cilantro can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
What is special about celery?
Celery is a plant that has been cultivated for its stalks, leaves, and roots since ancient times.
It’s often used in cooking to flavor soups and other dishes but can also be found as part of celeriac mash which contains numerous valuable nutrients.
Celery parts can be eaten raw and have a crunchy texture when uncooked.
Celery is a rich source of anti-inflammatory properties, vitamin C, fiber, and potassium.
It is also low in calories, making it one of the best choices for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle.
However, some people don’t really like the taste of celery as they find it similar to raw green onions.
What are the differences between cilantro and celery?
Both cilantro and celery are widely used in cooking.
But you should know how they differ from each other to use them properly in your recipes.
Don’t worry, the comparison table below will help:
| Cilantro | Celery | |
| Origin | The Mediterranean, Western Asia | Europe (England and France) |
| Type | Herb | Vegetable |
| Appearance | Softer, feathery, smaller | Larger, longer, tougher stalks |
| Taste | Fresh, mild, citrusy | Bitter, bold |
| Nutritional value | Higher in carbs, dietary fiberHigher in vitamin C, potassium | Higher in fiber, protein, vitamin K |
| Common uses | As a garnish, fragrant herb, medicinal purposes | Flavor soups, make smoothie |
What are the similarities between cilantro and celery?
Now you know some key differences between cilantro and celery so that the next time you go shopping or cooking, you can choose the right herb or vegetable for your recipe.
But how about their similarities?
They do share three things in common, as listed below:
Cilantro and celery have similar leaves
Although celery and coriander have different appearances (mentioned in the above table), regarding their leaves only, they look quite similar.
If you don’t smell their leaves, they look almost the same with green color, a soft texture, and rounded serrations.
Therefore, if you don’t make sure that these leaves are coriander or celery, just give them a smell, or look at their stems.
Cilantro and celery can be substituted sometimes
The second similarity between cilantro and celery is that they can be used as substitutes for each other sometimes.
Although their aromas are quite different, they are meant to enhance the flavor of your dishes.
So if you don’t mind the slight change in the taste and fragrance of your recipe, use them interchangeably without any doubt.
Cilantro and celery are both nutritious
Last but not least, cilantro and celery are both nutritious.
They are packed with many essential nutrients that benefit our health in different ways.
Celery and cilantro are also low in calories and fat, so even if you add too much of them to your recipes, they are still great for weight loss.
Which one is better?
| Product Comparison | Cilantro, 1 Bunch | Celery, 1 Bunch |
| Product Image |  |  |
| Rating | (based on 8,746 Reviews) | (based on 8,248 Reviews) |
| Latest Price | Check Current Price | Check Current Price |
So, which one is better for you?
Celery or cilantro?
The answer to this question depends on your own taste preferences.
Some people love the strong flavor of celery, while others find it too overpowering.
Coriander is a more subtle herb that many people enjoy as part of their salads.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which one you like best between cilantro and celery!
