Parsley and cilantro are two different herbs that look remarkably similar, and people frequently confuse the two herbs and use them interchangeably in recipes.
But simply because parsley and cilantro look similar, doesn’t mean they’re the same thing.
Here are the Major 5 differences between the two herbs:
- The botanical name of Parsley is Petroselinum crispum whereas the cilantro or coriander is known as Coriandrum sativum.
- Parsley has long, flat leaves attached to thick stems. The leaves grow in a cluster at the top of the plant and are bright green in color. Cilantro on the other hand has thin stems that grow from the base of the plant, and small leaves that look like ferns.
- The aroma of parsley is earthy, while cilantro has a distinct aroma that resembles citrus fruits such as oranges, limes, or lemons.
- Parsley tastes peppery and slightly bitter when eaten raw, while cilantro has a milder taste that’s similar to celery or fennel when eaten raw.
You can read the a detailed article on this subject here.