Coriander

is the dried ripe fruit of
a herb
with several branches and leaves with jagged edges.
Coriander forms the base of most Indian curries. Both
its seeds and leaves are used in dishes. Coriander
seeds are mos
tly used in powder form, slightly roasted to improve the
flavour.
It is basic to rasam, sambar and curry powders. Its leaves are used for making
chutneys and garnishing.
This
fragrant spice also has its own medicinal properties. Oil of Coriander seeds is a
valuable ingredient in perfumes.
The
major producers of Indian Coriander are Gujarat, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh,
Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh. The main importers are USA, UK, Malaysia,
Singapore, Sri Lanka and Middle East. Besides Coriander seeds, India also
exports their powders and essential oils.