Origin  Near East

Part Used  Seeds

The seed of the same plant that gives us the herb, cilantro, this annual plant yields a seed with a slight citrus aroma and a mild mint taste.  The plant that produces coriander is of the Umbelleferae family the same family that contains anise, caraway, cumin, dill, and fennel. 

Immature seeds don't have the coriander flavor, so you must wait till the seeds are starting to turn brown before you harvest them.

An essential ingredient in Curry, Garam Masala and Pickling Spice the Coriander seed marries well with fruit, lemons, and is used in marinades.  Its characteristics make it a main flavoring ingredient in Indian Chutney's.