Vietnamese coriander, also known as “rau răm” or “daun kesum” in Southeast Asia, is a herb that brings a burst of exotic flavor to a variety of dishes. Its unique taste and culinary versatility have made it a beloved ingredient in Vietnamese, Thai, Malaysian, and Cambodian cuisines. In this blog, we will take a deep dive into the world of Vietnamese coriander, exploring its taste, uses, benefits, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an amateur cook, Vietnamese coriander can add a delightful twist to your culinary creations.
What Is Vietnamese Coriander?
Vietnamese coriander (Persicaria odorata) is a herbaceous plant native to Southeast Asia. It is commonly grown in countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Cambodia. This herb is known for its slender, pointed leaves and distinctive red or purple stems.
What Does It Taste Like?
Vietnamese coriander has a unique flavor profile that combines elements of spiciness, citrusy notes, and a hint of peppery freshness. Some describe its taste as a cross between cilantro (coriander) and mint. The flavor is bold but not overpowering, making it a versatile addition to a wide range of dishes.
Fresh vs. Dried Vietnamese Coriander:
Introduction:
Vietnamese coriander, also known as “rau răm” or “daun kesum,” is a herb that adds a unique twist to various dishes. Its fresh and vibrant flavor is a key element in Southeast Asian cuisines. While fresh Vietnamese coriander is preferred for its vibrant taste and aroma, dried Vietnamese coriander is a convenient alternative when fresh leaves are not available. In this table, we’ll compare fresh and dried Vietnamese coriander in terms of taste, culinary uses, and storage to help you choose the right form for your culinary needs.
| Aspect | Fresh Vietnamese Coriander | Dried Vietnamese Coriander |
| Taste and Aroma | Offers a vibrant, peppery, | Retains some flavor but may |
| citrusy flavor with an | have a milder taste and | |
| aromatic, fresh aroma. | reduced aroma compared to | |
| fresh leaves. | ||
| Culinary Uses | Commonly used as a garnish | Used primarily when fresh |
| for soups, salads, and | leaves are unavailable. | |
| noodle dishes. Adds a | Can be used in soups and | |
| burst of freshness and | stews for a hint of flavor | |
| fragrance to dishes. | and aroma. | |
| Convenience | Requires regular | Convenient and has a longer |
| replenishment as fresh | shelf life. | |
| leaves have a shorter | ||
| shelf life. | ||
| Storage | Store in the refrigerator | Store in an airtight |
| with stems in water and | container in a cool, dry | |
| leaves covered by a | place away from direct | |
| plastic bag. | sunlight. | |
| Availability | Seasonal and may be | Available year-round and |
| limited to certain | can be stored for longer | |
| regions. | periods. |
While fresh Vietnamese coriander offers the full range of flavor and aroma, dried Vietnamese coriander can be a suitable option when fresh leaves are not accessible. It retains some of the herb’s unique characteristics and can be a valuable addition to your pantry for times when you want to infuse dishes with a hint of Vietnamese coriander’s distinctive taste and fragrance.
Cooking with Vietnamese Coriander:
Vietnamese coriander is incredibly versatile in the kitchen and can be used in various ways:
- Use fresh leaves as a garnish for soups, salads, and noodle dishes.
- Add chopped Vietnamese coriander to stir-fries, curries, and marinades.
- Blend it into sauces and dressings to infuse a unique flavor.
- Incorporate it into rice paper rolls, spring rolls, or banh mi sandwiches for an authentic touch.
Recipes with Vietnamese Coriander:
- Vietnamese Pho: Enhance your homemade pho by adding fresh Vietnamese coriander leaves as a garnish.
- Thai Green Curry: Stir chopped Vietnamese coriander into your green curry paste or sprinkle it over the finished dish for extra freshness.
- Laksa: This Malaysian noodle soup is incomplete without Vietnamese coriander leaves, which add a citrusy zing to the broth.
Substitutions:
If you can’t find Vietnamese coriander, consider using a combination of cilantro and mint to approximate its flavor. While not an exact match, this substitution can work well in many recipes.
Where to Buy:
You can find fresh Vietnamese coriander in Asian grocery stores or markets that carry Southeast Asian ingredients. It may also be available at some farmers’ markets or specialty herb shops. Dried Vietnamese coriander can be purchased online or in well-stocked spice stores.
Storage:
To keep fresh Vietnamese coriander at its best, store it in the refrigerator. Place the stems in a jar of water, cover the leaves with a plastic bag, and store it in the vegetable crisper. Dried Vietnamese coriander should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Facts about Vietnamese Coriander:
- Botanical Identity: Vietnamese coriander, scientifically known as Persicaria odorata, belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is not related to the traditional cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) despite the name “coriander.”
- Common Names: Vietnamese coriander is known by various names in different regions. In Vietnam, it’s called “rau răm,” while in Malaysia and Indonesia, it is referred to as “daun kesum.” Other names include “laksa leaf” and “hot mint.”
- Native Habitat: This herb is native to Southeast Asia, particularly countries like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions with warm and humid climates.
- Distinctive Appearance: Vietnamese coriander has elongated leaves with a dark green color and burgundy-red stems. The leaves are slightly serrated along the edges, giving them a unique appearance.
- Flavor Profile: Vietnamese coriander has a flavor that combines elements of mint, cilantro, and basil. It offers a refreshing, minty taste with hints of peppery and citrusy notes, which contribute to its versatility in various cuisines.
- Culinary Uses: It is a staple herb in Southeast Asian cuisines, used in dishes like laksa, pho, and rojak. Its fresh and minty flavor provides a pleasant contrast to spicy and savory dishes.
- Traditional Medicine: In some cultures, Vietnamese coriander has been used in traditional medicine for its potential digestive and cooling properties.
- Perennial Herb: Vietnamese coriander is a perennial herb, which means it can thrive and grow continuously for several years under the right conditions.
- Propagation: It can be propagated through stem cuttings or by dividing the plant’s root system, making it easy for home gardeners to cultivate.
- Global Popularity: Over the years, Vietnamese coriander has gained popularity beyond its native regions and is now cultivated and used in various parts of the world, especially in multicultural culinary settings.
- Health Benefits: Like many herbs, Vietnamese coriander contains essential oils and antioxidants, which may offer potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and reducing inflammation.
- Scientific Research: Some scientific studies have explored the phytochemical composition of Vietnamese coriander and its potential pharmacological properties, though more research is needed to fully understand its medicinal potential.
- Versatile Ingredient: Vietnamese coriander is not limited to savory dishes; it can also be used to flavor beverages, salads, and desserts, adding a unique and refreshing twist.
- Culinary Complement: It often pairs well with other herbs and ingredients commonly found in Southeast Asian dishes, such as lemongrass, basil, and chili peppers.
- Cultural Significance: Vietnamese coriander holds cultural significance in the cuisines of Southeast Asia, where it is considered an essential herb for many traditional recipes.
These facts highlight the unique and versatile nature of Vietnamese coriander, making it a valuable addition to the culinary world and an herb with a rich cultural heritage.
Benefits of Vietnamese Coriander:
Vietnamese coriander, also known as “rau răm” or “daun kesum,” is not only a flavorful herb used in cooking but also offers potential health benefits due to its unique chemical composition. Here are some of the potential benefits of Vietnamese coriander:
- Digestive Aid: Vietnamese coriander has been traditionally used in some cultures to aid digestion. It contains compounds like cineole and limonene, which may help reduce digestive discomfort and promote a healthy digestive system.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Some of the bioactive compounds found in Vietnamese coriander, such as linalool and citronellol, possess anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially benefiting individuals with inflammatory conditions.
- Antioxidant Activity: Vietnamese coriander contains antioxidants like quercetin, which can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and may contribute to overall health.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Vietnamese coriander is a good source of vitamins, including vitamin C and vitamin A. It also contains essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron, which are important for various bodily functions.
- Antimicrobial Potential: Some studies have suggested that Vietnamese coriander may possess antimicrobial properties. Compounds like citronellol and geraniol found in the herb may help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
- Mood and Stress Regulation: The aroma of Vietnamese coriander, with its citrusy and minty notes, may have a soothing and calming effect on mood. Aromatherapy enthusiasts often use essential oils derived from the herb for relaxation.
- Oral Health: The antimicrobial properties of Vietnamese coriander may extend to oral health. Some mouthwashes and dental products incorporate its essential oils to help combat oral bacteria and promote fresher breath.
- Weight Management: Vietnamese coriander is low in calories and can be a flavorful addition to low-calorie dishes. Its taste can enhance the palatability of lighter meals, potentially supporting weight management efforts.
- Cultural and Traditional Use: In Southeast Asian traditional medicine, Vietnamese coriander has been used to address various health issues, including digestive complaints and mild pain relief.
It’s important to note that while Vietnamese coriander shows promise in various areas of health and wellness, more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and mechanisms of action. As with any herb or natural remedy, it should be used as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using Vietnamese coriander or its extracts for therapeutic purposes.
Vietnamese Coriander Uses:
Vietnamese coriander, also known as “rau răm” or “daun kesum,” is a versatile herb with a unique flavor profile that makes it a popular ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine. Here are some common and delicious uses of Vietnamese coriander:
- Soups and Broths: Vietnamese coriander is frequently used as a garnish for soups and broths, such as the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup, pho. Its fresh, peppery flavor and citrusy aroma enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Salads: Add finely chopped Vietnamese coriander leaves to salads for a burst of freshness and a hint of peppery zest. It pairs well with other herbs like mint and basil in herb salads.
- Noodle Dishes: Incorporate Vietnamese coriander into noodle dishes, such as bun thit nuong (Vietnamese grilled pork with vermicelli noodles) or bun rieu (crab noodle soup). It adds a refreshing element to these dishes.
- Marinades and Sauces: Mince Vietnamese coriander leaves and stems to infuse marinades and dipping sauces with their unique flavor. It complements grilled meats and seafood.
- Rice Paper Rolls: Use Vietnamese coriander leaves as a flavorful wrapper for rice paper rolls. Fill them with shrimp, herbs, and other ingredients for a delicious and aromatic appetizer.
- Curries and Stir-Fries: Vietnamese coriander is an essential herb in Southeast Asian curries and stir-fries. It adds a fresh, citrusy dimension to the dishes and balances out the heat of spices.
- Herbal Teas: Vietnamese coriander leaves can be used to make herbal teas known for their soothing properties. Simply steep the leaves in hot water and enjoy a fragrant and calming drink.
- Cocktails and Beverages: Some mixologists use Vietnamese coriander leaves to add a unique twist to cocktails and mocktails. The herb’s peppery notes can enhance the flavor of drinks.
- Desserts: In some Southeast Asian desserts, Vietnamese coriander leaves are used as a garnish to provide a contrast to sweet flavors. They add an unexpected and refreshing element to desserts.
- Flavoring Oils and Vinegars: Infuse oils or vinegars with Vietnamese coriander leaves and stems to create aromatic culinary additions. These infused oils and vinegars can be used in dressings and marinades.
- Herbal Seasoning Blends: Vietnamese coriander can be part of homemade herbal seasoning blends, especially those used in traditional dishes like laksa, where its flavor is essential.
- Traditional Medicine: In some cultures, Vietnamese coriander has been used in traditional medicine for its potential digestive and cooling properties, although its primary use is culinary.
Vietnamese coriander’s versatility and distinct flavor make it an indispensable herb in Southeast Asian kitchens. Whether you’re preparing traditional dishes or experimenting with fusion cuisine, the addition of Vietnamese coriander can elevate your culinary creations with its refreshing and aromatic qualities.
FAQs:
Is Vietnamese coriander the same as regular coriander (cilantro)?
- No, they are different herbs with distinct flavors. Vietnamese coriander has a spicier and more peppery taste compared to cilantro.
Can I use dried Vietnamese coriander as a substitute for fresh?
- While dried Vietnamese coriander can be used, it has a different flavor profile. Fresh is preferred for its vibrant taste and aroma.
What dishes can I use Vietnamese coriander in?
- Vietnamese coriander is commonly used in Southeast Asian soups, noodle dishes, curries, and as a garnish for various savory dishes.
Conclusion:
Vietnamese coriander, with its unique flavor reminiscent of cilantro and mint, is a delightful addition to Southeast Asian cuisine and beyond. Whether you’re creating traditional dishes like laksa or experimenting with new recipes, this herb can bring a fresh and exciting dimension to your cooking. With its potential health benefits and culinary versatility, Vietnamese coriander is a herb that deserves a place in your kitchen. Explore the world of rau răm and unlock the flavors of Southeast Asia in your own culinary adventures.