Cilantro: Love It or Hate It? The Science Behind the Soapy Taste

Cilantro, Coriandrum sativum, also known as coriander or Chinese parsley, provokes a genuinely repulsed reaction in certain people. As a frequent eater and huge fan of cilantro, I found it baffling when I'd encounter someone who felt utter disgust for the herb, claiming it tastes like soap. I assumed they were just picky or had once eaten bad salsa and blamed the cilantro. Turns out, their reaction isn't an overreaction—it's real and grounded in science.

What Is Cilantro?

Cilantro belongs to the Umbelliferae family. Native to the southeastern Mediterranean, it's now grown worldwide. It's a hardy annual and quite easy to cultivate. The flat, broad, lacy leaves are called cilantro, while the seeds are known as coriander. Both parts are highly aromatic but offer distinctly different flavors—and that's where the intrigue begins.

Why Does Cilantro Taste Like Soap to Some People?

For those put off by it, the flavor is described as soapy or metallic, and the plant's scent is often likened to stink bugs. If that resonates with you, don't worry—you're not crazy, and you're in good company.

Julia Child famously voiced her disdain: "Cilantro and arugula I don't like at all. They're both green herbs, they have kind of a dead taste to me. I would pick it out if I saw it and throw it on the floor." For those who feel the same, the aversion is truly visceral.

Scientists have discovered a genetic link for this strong negative reaction to cilantro's smell and flavor. A 23andMe study of over 14,000 participants of European ancestry found at least two genetic variants that determine whether someone detects the soapy scent in cilantro leaves.

One variant involves an olfactory receptor gene, OR6A2, which encodes for specific aldehydes present in cilantro leaves that give them their characteristic odor. This gene is believed to be responsible for the perception of that soapy scent.

Can You Learn to Like Cilantro?

While your genes may predispose you to love or hate cilantro, they're not the only factor—and it's never too late to turn over a new leaf. According to a Japanese university study, crushing the leaves may release enzymes that convert the aldehydes into an odorless substance, making it more palatable.

Others have had success by slowly incorporating tiny amounts into their food to recondition their palate. However you slice or dice it, if you're forever a foe of this green, lacy herb, by all means toss it all onto my plate!

If you'd like to become a cilantro fan, learn how to grow it on our plant page.

Cilantro Recipes for Lovers

For the cilantro enthusiasts out there, here are some delicious recipes!

• Cilantro and Mint Sauce
• Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Salsa
• Thai-Spiced Peanut Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches

Tell us about your cilantro experience below!