How to Process Coriander
Contents
Processing of Coriander - Technical Brief
PRACTICAL ACTION
Technology challenging poverty
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Coriander (Coriandrum Sativum L) |
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Agricultural and botanical aspects
Annual erect herb which grows to a height of 90cm and requires medium to heavy well drained soils.
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Harvesting
Correct harvesting is essential. Under ripe coriander fruits (often referred to as seeds) have an unpleasant flavour. Over ripe fruits shatter and are lost. Since ripening is progressive on the plant, harvesting should take place when between half or two thirds of the fruits are ripe. To minimise breakage, the plants should be cut during the early morning or in the late evening.
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Drying
The plants are withered for two days and dried to approximately 18% moisture content (wet basis). They are then threshed and the fruits are dried in the shade to a moisture content (wet basis) of 9%. Coriander is artificially dried in some countries including the USSR at temperatures of 80-90°C. Temperatures of over 100°C results in the loss of volatile oils.
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Uses
Used to flavour foods and as a major ingredient in curry powder (where coriander can be as much as 24%). Coriander is used to a large extent in the chemical industry in the USSR.
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Reference and further reading
Processing of Cumin, Practical Action Technical Brief
Drying of Foods, Practical Action Technical Briefs
Small-scale Drying Technologies, Practical Action Technical Brief
Practical Action, The Schumacher Centre For Technology & Development
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