Eryngium foetidum, sometimes marketed as "Garlic Cilantro." A distinct plant from true cilantro (Coriandrum sativum), though closely related in flavor
About
Culantro is cilantro's louder, more assertive relative, a plant with deep roots in Caribbean, Southeast Asian, and Latin American kitchens, where its bold flavor holds up to heat in a way delicate cilantro never quite can. Sold here as Garlic Cilantro, its microgreens carry that same reputation into a smaller, more approachable form.
Flavor Profile & Texture
The flavor is cilantro's bigger, bolder sibling: sharply herbal and citrusy with a distinct garlicky undertone that true cilantro doesn't have. The texture is a bit sturdier than cilantro microgreens too, with slightly thicker, more serrated leaves that hold their shape a little better in cooked applications, though it's still best used mostly raw or added near the end of cooking.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient Amount (Per 100g, Raw)
Calories ~24 kcal
Vitamin A ~ Good source
Vitamin C ~ Good source
Antioxidant compounds ~ Present
Iron ~ Present
Approximate values, based on general USDA and published nutrient data for this or closely related species. Provided for general educational purposes only, not medical advice.
Keeping It Fresh
Store unwashed in a vented, paper towel-lined container in the refrigerator; use within 4 to 6 days. It is slightly sturdier than true cilantro microgreens, but still best used relatively fresh.
Culinary Uses
● Stirred into Caribbean-style stews and sofrito
● Scattered over pho or Vietnamese noodle bowls
● Used as a bold substitute anywhere cilantro is called for
● Chopped into a spicy salsa verde
● Added to marinades for a garlicky, herbal punch
Complementary Meals
Breakfast: A small amount goes a long way scattered over a savory breakfast hash or huevos rancheros, where its garlicky punch adds real depth without needing extra garlic in the pan.
Lunch: It's a natural addition to a Vietnamese-style noodle bowl or a Caribbean-inspired rice and bean lunch, where its bold flavor holds its own even against well-seasoned dishes.
Dinner: Use it in a sofrito base for stews, or scatter it fresh over a finished curry or braised dish at dinner. Because it's a bit sturdier than cilantro, it also survives being stirred in a few minutes before serving rather than only as a raw garnish.
Drink Pairings
Wine: A fuller-bodied, slightly spicy white or off-dry Gewürztraminer-style wine can stand up to culantro's boldness. Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery in Dahlonega, GA, is worth checking for wines with enough character for this pairing.
Beer: A hoppy IPA has enough intensity to match culantro's punch rather than getting lost next to it. Wild Heaven Beer, based in Avondale Estates, GA, offers hop-forward options suited to this pairing.
Spirits: A spicy, herbal cocktail built on rum or tequila complements the Caribbean and Latin dishes this herb usually appears in. ASW Distillery in Atlanta, GA, offers spirits that work well as a base.
Non-Alcoholic: A ginger or spicy kombucha stands up to culantro's bold, garlicky profile. Golda Kombucha in Atlanta, GA, makes a ginger variety suited to this pairing.
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