Coriander (dhaniya) is a staple in every Indian kitchen, adding freshness and flavor to curries, chutneys, and salads. But the biggest struggle? Keeping it from wilting or turning slimy after just a couple of days. The good news is that with a few smart storage tricks, you can make coriander last for a week or even longer while retaining its vibrant color and aroma. Here are five proven ways to store fresh coriander.
1. Store in an Airtight Container With Kitchen Towel
Wash and dry the coriander leaves thoroughly. Line an airtight container with a kitchen towel, place the coriander inside, and cover with another towel before sealing the lid. This absorbs excess moisture and keeps the leaves fresh for up to 10 days.
2. Keep Coriander Stems in a Glass of Water
Trim the ends of the coriander bunch and place them in a glass jar with about an inch of water, just like a bouquet. Cover loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate. Change the water every 2–3 days to keep the leaves green and perky.
3. Wrap in Newspaper or Paper Towel
If you don’t have containers, wrap the coriander bunch in newspaper or a thick paper towel. The paper soaks up excess moisture while letting the herb breathe, preventing fungal growth. Store it in the refrigerator’s vegetable drawer.
4. Freeze Coriander in Ice Cube Trays
For long-term use, blend coriander leaves with a little water and pour the paste into ice cube trays. Once frozen, store the cubes in a zip-lock bag. These can be directly dropped into curries, soups, or chutneys for instant flavor.
5. Use Cloth Pouch or Muslin Bag
An eco-friendly trick is to store washed and dried coriander inside a clean muslin or cotton pouch. Place it in the fridge to keep the herb fresh while allowing natural airflow, which slows down spoilage.
Coriander may be delicate, but with these simple hacks, you can keep it fresh, fragrant, and ready to use for much longer. Whether you prefer the classic airtight container trick or the innovative ice cube method, these storage tips will ensure you never run out of fresh dhaniya for your meals.