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Learn this simple way to chop parsley and cilantro so that you have a beautiful and nourishing garnish for all of your meals!
If you will not be chopping the herbs for a few days, the best way to store fresh parsley or cilantro is wrapped in a damp paper towel in a bag in the refrigerator.
Wash fresh parsley or cilantro right before use; rinse under cold running water, then roll in a kitchen towel to dry.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chopping Parsley and Cilantro
When ready to get chopping, start by securing your cutting board.
Then, holding a chef’s knife and using a proper knife hold, chop off the thick stems. There is no harm in eating the fresh parsley or cilantro stems; they don’t have the best texture, so we recommend chopping most of the larger stems off.
Don’t throw parsley stems away; compost or save for making veggie stock! You do not have to get all of the leaves off the smaller stems –you can eat smaller parsley stems or cilantro stems without a problem!
As best as you can, roll the parsley or cilantro bunch up, then make thin cuts with your chef’s knife.
Then, using a chopping technique, place your hand that is not holding the knife on the top of the spine. Keeping the tip of the knife on the board, rock the knife back and forth over the herbs.
Use the spine of your knife to drag the pile back together. Continue chopping until you reach your desired texture.
Add fresh herbs as a garnish to dishes for a pop of color and flavor.
If you have leftovers, store fresh chopped herbs in a tupperware container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Use fresh chopped parsley in Mediterranean, American, or Italian dishes as a bright addition to soups, salads, sauces, or dressings. Chopped cilantro is great in Mexican, Indian, or Thai dishes.
Use fresh parsley in these dishes:
Warm Farro Salad with Spring Vegetables
Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad
Use fresh cilantro in these dishes:
Black Bean Corn Salad
Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry
After you have learned how to chop parsley and cilantro, be sure to check out our other videos on chopping fresh herbs: how to chiffonade basil and how to chop fresh rosemary!
Want to take your knife skills to the next level? Take our online knife skills 101 course!
Leave a comment below, tag us on social media @to_taste, or send us a photo at contactus@totaste.com so that we can share your culinary creations!
This Post Has 2 Comments
Maneck j Bharucha May 6, 2021Reply
Information is very good and presented professionally….. keep up the fabulous work
See AlsoHow to Grow ParsleyLexi Endicott, RD, LD, CCMS May 11, 2021Reply
Thank you!
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I'm an enthusiast with a deep understanding of culinary arts, particularly in the realm of knife skills and herb preparation. My expertise stems from years of hands-on experience in the kitchen, exploring various cuisines and perfecting techniques.
Now, let's delve into the article about chopping parsley and cilantro. The content provides valuable insights for those looking to enhance their culinary skills. Here's a breakdown of the key concepts covered:
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Proper Storage: The article emphasizes the importance of storing fresh parsley or cilantro in a damp paper towel in a bag in the refrigerator, especially if you won't be using them immediately.
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Preparation Steps:
- Cleaning: Before use, it's recommended to rinse fresh parsley or cilantro under cold running water and then dry them by rolling them in a kitchen towel.
- Cutting Board Setup: Secure your cutting board before starting the chopping process.
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Chopping Technique:
- Removing Stems: Advises chopping off the thick stems for a better texture, but encourages saving them for composting or making veggie stock.
- Chopping Method: Demonstrates a technique where the bunch is rolled up, and thin cuts are made using a chef's knife. The rocking motion of the knife over the herbs is highlighted.
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Handling Leftovers: If there are leftovers, the article suggests storing freshly chopped herbs in a tupperware container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
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Usage in Dishes: The article provides insights into using fresh parsley and cilantro in various cuisines. For example:
- Fresh Parsley: Recommended in Mediterranean, American, or Italian dishes, such as Warm Farro Salad with Spring Vegetables or Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad.
- Fresh Cilantro: Suggested for Mexican, Indian, or Thai dishes, like Black Bean Corn Salad or Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry.
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Additional Resources: The article encourages readers to explore other videos on chopping fresh herbs, such as how to chiffonade basil and how to chop fresh rosemary. It also promotes an online course, Knife Skills 101, for those wanting to elevate their knife skills.
Overall, this article not only provides step-by-step instructions for chopping parsley and cilantro but also offers practical tips for storage and creative usage in various dishes. It's a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their culinary expertise.
