What is it?
A concentrated mixture of cilantro that, per cube, is equal to two teaspoons of fresh cilantro. There are also some random ingredients packed into these bouillon-like squares, including monosodium glutamate (which I’ve personally never had a problem with), hydrogenated palm oil, dehydrated spinach – for color, presumably – and ground bay leaves.
Interestingly enough, it’s a product of the Dominican Republic.
What is it used for?
You can use it in a pinch if you don’t want to run to the store for a $.50 bunch of the fresh stuff in soups, rice, stews and anything else where it would dissolve easily.
Where can I buy it in Houston?
We found this at the Foodarama on Victory and Bingle, but we’re guessing it can be found in many of the Latin markets around town.
Recipe:
Cilantro Corn Soup, Courtesy of Knorr
This article appears in Sep 23-29, 2010.