How do I know whether I should use flat-leaf or curly-leaf parsley? I'm interested mostly in their uses as ingredients, but guidance on usage as garnishes is also welcome.
asked Jul 24, 2010 at 14:29
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4 Answers
Flat-leaf (also called Italian Parsley) and curly parsley can be used interchangeably but most chefs prefer flat leaf as it usually has a more distinct taste. That is going to be up to you and your preference.
Curly parsley provides a more unique and visually interesting look when you're talking about garnishes but putting a sprig of parsley on a plate is what would be called a "non-functional" garnish. Aside from adding a bit of green it serves no purpose as very few people I know will pop it in their mouth and eat it. You're better to sprinkle with chopped parsley or herbs that can help enhance/accent the flavor.
Curly parsley is also visually appealing used in a parsley salad due again to the ruffled edges.
I usually use flat-leaf if available, then curly if flat-leaf isn't available. Under no circumstances (except if you just need a touch of green dust) do I recommend using dried parsley. Clippings from the underside of yor lawn-mower probably have more flavor. Same goes for dried chives.
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I find that the Simply Organic dried parsley has pretty good taste. Not sure what they do with it, but it's green where every other dried parsley I've seen is mostly brown/yellow.– ceejayozCommented Jul 24, 2010 at 18:08
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Has anyone seen or heard of "Litehouse" brand of Freeze-Dried herbs? A friend of mine recently told me about them and she thought they had a much more vibrant taste than other dried herbs. It's a product produced in Germany but imported through a company in Idaho. She found them in a store in North Carolina but can't find them locally here in Savannah, GA. Commented Jul 26, 2010 at 4:16
Flat parsley is more for Southern European cooking and has a stronger taste.
Curly parsley is more for Northern European cooking - British cooking in particular. For example it is perfect for cod is parsley sauce. It's much milder and less bitter in its raw form.
answered Jul 24, 2010 at 17:03
I personally can't tell the difference in the taste.
I feel that flat-leaf is easier to chop but YMMV.
Lately we've had curly. We can store this in the same glass as cilantro (as per these instructions) and easily tell the 2 apart -- which I find very convenient.
Frankly, I think the difference comes down to texture. If I'm not cooking it, I always use the flat parsley, as I find the curly to have a very harsh, rough mouth feel to it.
Other than that, I don't think it matters.
answered Jul 26, 2010 at 17:38
