Cilantro, also called Chinese parsley, is commonly used for its distinctive pungent flavor and fragrance in Vietnamese, Thai, other Asian, Indian, and Mexican cuisines. Choose leaves with a bright, even color and no sign of wilting. The dried leaves lack cilantro's distinctive flavor and are an unacceptable substitution.

Paulette Mitchell, a culinary instructor, television personality, and the author of 10 cookbooks, is known internationally for her quick-to-prepare recipes with a gourmet flair. Her 15-Minute Gourmet cookbook series, including Chicken, Vegetarian, and Noodles, was awarded "Best Cookbook Series in the World" at the 2000 World Cookbook Fair in Périgueux, France in November, 2000. Her Complete Soy Cookbook was named "Best Health Cookbook" at the same event in 1998. To buy Paulette Mitchell's cookbooks, click here.