What Do You Call Pesto if You Make It with Cilantro Instead of Basil?

Have you ever wondered what happens when you replace the staple ingredient in pesto, basil, with cilantro? This innovative variation can elevate your culinary creations and offer a unique flavor profile. Let's explore the historical context, the benefits, and the versatility of Thai Cilantro Pesto.

The Birth of Thai Cilantro Pesto

A few years ago, I stumbled upon a recipe for a Thai cilantro pesto, now a cherished recipe in my collection. The original creator, Nancie McDermott, included this intriguing dish in her book, Real Thai: The Best of Thailand's Regional Cooking. Cilantro pesto is not only a unique take on the classic basil pesto but also a nod to Thai cuisine's vibrant and diverse flavors. The key ingredients are cilantro leaves, stems, and roots, garlic, and peppercorns—added in specific proportions: roughly three parts cilantro, three parts garlic, and one part peppercorns.

Essential Ingredients for Thai Cilantro Pesto

To prepare this special recipe, you should have the following ingredients, which in total add up to a rich, flavorful paste:

3 parts cilantro (leaves, stems, and roots) 3 parts garlic 1 part peppercorns (white or black)

The process of making Thai Cilantro Pesto is straightforward. First, roast the peppercorns to enhance their flavor and aroma. Then, either use a mortar and pestle or a small food processor to blend the cilantro, garlic, and roasted peppercorns into a smooth paste. The combination of cilantro with its aromatic, slightly sweet and savory notes, along with the strong, robust flavor of garlic, and the subtle heat from the peppercorns, creates a compelling flavor that is unmatched by traditional basil pesto.

The Versatility of Thai Cilantro Pesto

Adding Thai Cilantro Pesto to your cooking repertoire can unlock a myriad of new dishes. Here are just a few ideas:

Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Pesto Sauce: Toss grilled chicken with the pesto for a delicious marinated dish. The cilantro pesto adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors of the chicken. Stir-Fried Vegetables with Cilantro Pesto: Toss a variety of stir-fried vegetables with the pesto for a vibrant, colorful dish that is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. White Fish with Cilantro Pesto: A simple grilled or baked white fish dish can be enhanced by a topping of cilantro pesto, offering an intricate blend of flavors to uplift the meal. Thai Cilantro Pesto Pasta: Serve the pesto over your favorite pasta shape. This dish is perfect for a quick, nourishing, and flavorful meal.

Uses of Thai Cilantro in Thai Cuisine

In Thai cuisine, cilantro (or coriander) is a common herb used in various dishes for its fresh, zesty, and slightly citrusy flavor. Adding cilantro to your cooking can:

Enhance Curry Dishes: Use cilantro as a base for curries, adding a burst of freshness and a cooling effect to the spicy flavors. Incorporate into Stir-Fries: Chopped cilantro can be added to stir-fries for a fresh, aromatic element, making it an indispensable ingredient for these quick-cooking dishes. Add to Fish Dishes: Toss fish with a cilantro pesto for a flavorful, wholesome dish. The pesto can balance the richness of the fish and add a touch of freshness.

The cilantro roots are particularly useful as they have a more robust and hearty flavor than the leaves and can withstand prolonged cooking without losing their deep, earthy flavor. You can often find bunches of cilantro with the roots still attached at the local grocery, making them a handy ingredient to have on hand.

Recipe: How to Make Thai Cilantro Pesto

Rinse the cilantro and remove any debris. If you prefer, you can include the roots from the cilantro bunches.

Roast the peppercorns in a small pan until fragrant, then cool and roughly crush them.

In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, blend the cilantro, garlic, and crushed peppercorns until a coarse paste forms.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, and store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Conclusion

Thai Cilantro Pesto is more than just a variation on the traditional basil pesto; it's a gateway to exploring the flavors of Thai cuisine. Its unique combination of fresh cilantro, aromatic garlic, and peppery peppercorns offers a distinct taste that is both refreshing and exciting. Whether used as a marinade, a sauce, or a pasta topping, this innovation in pesto can be a game-changer in your kitchen. So why not give it a try and see how it can expand your culinary horizons?