How to Make Cilantro paste

Fermented cilantro paste preserves this polarizing herb's bright, citrusy flavor while developing probiotic benefits. The fermentation mellows any soapy notes some people perceive.

Category: Pastes & Sauces · Method: Lactic Acid · Time: 14-60d · Difficulty: 1/5 · Yield: varies · Temp: 18-22°C

History

Cilantro (coriander leaf) has been used across cultures for millennia. Fermented herb pastes are traditional preservation methods in various Asian and Latin American cuisines.

Ingredients

  • 200g Fresh cilantro — Leaves and tender stems
  • 4-6 Garlic cloves — Peeled
  • 10g (5%) Sea salt — By weight of herbs
  • 2 tbsp Lime juice — Fresh

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Glass jar
  • Spatula
  • Kitchen scale

Instructions

  1. Clean herbs

    Wash cilantro thoroughly, spin dry. Remove thick stems.

    Time: 10 min

  2. Blend paste

    Process cilantro, garlic, salt, and lime until smooth paste forms.

    Time: 5 min

  3. Pack jar

    Transfer paste to jar, pressing out air pockets.

    Time: 5 min

  4. Top with oil

    Pour thin layer of olive oil on top to seal.

    Time: 2 min

  5. Ferment

    Ferment 14-60 days at room temperature.

    Time: 14-60 days

Fermentation Timeline

  • Week 1-2: Initial ferment — Paste begins souring, color stays bright.
  • Week 3-4: Development — Flavors deepen, garlic mellows.
  • Week 5+: Maturation — Complex, developed flavor.

Signs of Success & Spoilage

Good signs

  • Bright green color
  • Tangy aroma
  • Smooth texture
  • Pleasant sourness

Warning signs

  • Brown oxidation
  • Mold
  • Off smells
  • Separation

Troubleshooting

Browning on top
Cause: Air exposure Solution: Ensure oil layer covers paste completely.

Storage

Refrigerate Keeps 6-12 months. Top with fresh oil after each use.

Health Benefits

  • Probiotics
  • Vitamin K
  • Antioxidants
  • Detoxifying properties
  • Vitamin A

Serving Suggestions

  • Curry paste base
  • Marinade
  • Dipping sauce
  • Rice flavoring
  • Soup addition

Related Pastes & Sauces Ferments

Other Lactic Acid Ferments

Popular Fermented Foods

More Pastes & Sauces ferments · Lactic Acid fermentation

Authoritative food-safety sources

This site cross-references but does not replace professional guidance. For canonical, peer-reviewed fermentation safety information, consult:

Report an issue with this recipe →