culantro
everyday, Peru
In Peru the fresh coriander herb is usually called culantro. The form cilantro is also correct Spanish and is understood, but culantro is what you hear in Peruvian kitchens.
Meaning: fresh coriander leaves (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| culantro | everyday, Peru |
| cilantro | standard, understood |
Both words are masculine: el culantro, el cilantro. Ask for un atado de culantro to get a bunch.
When do people say it?
Peruvian arroz con pollo gets its green color from blended culantro, and the herb is also central to many stews and to green sauces.
Did you know?
- The Spanish dictionary accepts both cilantro and culantro for the same herb.
Examples in context
- El arroz con pollo lleva mucho culantro.Chicken rice has a lot of cilantro.
- Necesito un atado de culantro.I need a bunch of cilantro.
Example conversation
Doña Teresa asks her son Mateo to shop for culantro before lunch in Lima.
- TeresaMateo, anda al mercado y compra culantro.Mateo, go to the market and buy cilantro.
- Mateo¿Cuánto necesitas, mamá?How much do you need, mom?
- TeresaDos atados para el arroz con pollo.Two bunches for the chicken rice.
