Coriander
Coriander and its formal name of coriandrum sativum is from the family apiaceae. Coriander is native to southern Europe and North Africa to southwestern Asia. Coriander grows to about 1 foot to 2 feet tall in height.
Coriander is an annual herb and every part of the plant is edible, but the seeds and its leaves are the most common that is found in cooking. Coriander is very often used in Asian, Indian, Central American and American cuisine.
Coriander seeds resemble the flavor and aroma of cumin. Coriander is often used in ginger breads or ginger cookies, salads, pork and in chicken seasonings.
Coriander in an ingredient in Indian garam masala and curry powders. Coriander seeds sometimes are used to replace caraway seeds in Europe and northern Asia and is found as an ingredient in beer in some central European countries.
Cilantro
Cilantro is the leaves of the coriander plant. Cilantro leaves are small and irregular in shape. The flowers are white or very light pinkish in color. Cilantro is an ingredient in Mexican cuisines, Chinese cuisines and cuisines in India. Cilantro is normally added to the end of the dish or as a garnish.
Coriander is used for its natural health benefits and remedies. Mixed with turmeric, it is said to help acne. Coriander has antioxidant and antibacterial qualities, but it also cause an allergic reaction in some.