Cilantro vs. Culantro

[lhollers]

The pho was really good, with a very pleasant umami in each slurp. One difference between this version and others I've enjoyed is that the condiments contained all the usual suspects like a lime wedge, jalapeno slices, basil and sprouts, but also included a long leaf with a nice licorice flavor. I asked the server what it was and he said "coo-lantro" which I think he meant to be cilantro. I had never seen it in a long thin leaf before, but wow, did it liven up the broth nicely.

While related to cilantro, culantro (which I've also seen listed as Mexican coriander) is actually a separate plant. And really, really delicious - kind of an amped-up version of cilantro, and really does brighten up East Asian soups. More information here. Glad you enjoyed!