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Coriander leaves (commonly called cilantro) are an essential part of Indian cooking. From garnishing curries to enhancing chutneys, no dish feels complete without their fresh aroma. However, the biggest challenge most households face is keeping coriander fresh for more than two to three days. Often, it wilts, turns yellow, or starts to rot if not stored properly.

The good news is, with just a little smartness and some simple hacks, you can keep coriander leaves fresh, green, and fragrant for 8–10 days or even longer. By following these easy tricks, you’ll save yourself from the hassle of buying coriander leaves every other day.

Why Does Coriander Spoil So Quickly?

Coriander leaves contain high water content, which makes them prone to wilting and rotting when exposed to moisture or air. Most people store coriander without preparing it properly, which shortens its shelf life. The key is to reduce excess moisture, avoid suffocation, and store it in the right environment.

10 Smart Hacks to Store Coriander Leaves Longer 1. Don’t Wash Before Storage

Never wash coriander before storing it. Washing introduces moisture, which leads to quick spoilage. Instead, wash only the portion you want to use, just before cooking.

2. Remove Yellow or Rotten Leaves

Before storing, carefully pick out any yellow, damaged, or rotten leaves. This prevents the spread of decay and keeps the rest of the bunch fresher for longer.

3. Dry Gently Before Packing

Spread the coriander on a clean cloth or tissue paper for a few minutes to remove any surface moisture. Ensuring it is dry before storage extends its freshness.

4. Wrap in Tissue or Newspaper

Once dried, loosely wrap the coriander in a tissue paper or newspaper. This absorbs extra moisture and keeps the leaves from turning slimy.

5. Store in Airtight Container or Zip-Lock Bag

Place the wrapped coriander in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag before keeping it in the refrigerator. This method helps retain freshness for up to 10 days.

6. Use a Water Jar Method

Trim the ends of coriander stems and place them upright in a glass filled with water. Cover the top loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate. This trick keeps coriander fresh and hydrated for a week.

7. Keep in the Vegetable Box

Always store coriander in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator. This part maintains optimal humidity and prevents leaves from freezing or drying out.

8. Don’t Store All in One Bunch

Divide coriander into smaller bunches before storage. This way, even if one portion spoils, the rest remains safe and usable.

9. Refresh with Lemon Juice (Optional Hack)

Sprinkling a few drops of lemon juice on coriander before storing can help retain its green color and aroma for longer.

10. Freeze for Long-Term Storage

If you have bought coriander in bulk, consider freezing it. Chop the leaves, place them in ice cube trays with a little water, and freeze. These cubes can be directly added to curries and soups.

Extra Care Tips

• Always use clean, dry hands when handling stored coriander.
• Avoid opening and closing the storage container too often, as it introduces moisture.
• Check periodically and remove any leaves that start to spoil.

Final Thoughts

Coriander leaves may be delicate, but with the right storage methods, you can extend their freshness significantly. By adopting these simple tricks, you’ll save time, reduce kitchen waste, and ensure that your meals always have that perfect dash of freshness.

No more running to the market every day—just follow these kitchen hacks, and you’ll have fresh coriander ready to use whenever you need it.

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