Culantro (Phak Chi Farang) Benefits: Taste, Uses, and Why It’s a Must-Have Herb
Executive Summary Culantro, called phak chi farang in Thai, is a pungent tropical herb from the Apiaceae family that is related to cilantro but has a much stronger flavor. In Thai cooking, it is used to season soups, stews, curries, salads, marinades, and garnishes, especially dishes such as Tom Yum. The plant is widely available in Thai markets and home gardens, and the whole herb is often used. Besides its culinary value, culantro is also associated with traditional medicinal uses and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Because its taste is intense, it is usually added in moderation to avoid overpowering a dish. Organic Herbs and Spices for Thai Cooking In Thailand, culantro (Eryngium foetidum) is known as "phak chi farang" or "phak chi farang dong." It belongs to the Apiaceae family and is botanically related to cilantro (coriander), but it has a distinctly different flavor. Here are some key points about culantro in Thailand: Fla...