Vietnamese Coriander (Persicaria odorata)

Bold, Aromatic Herb for Asian Cuisine

Common Names: Vietnamese Coriander, Rau Răm, Vietnamese Mint, Laksa Leaf
Family: Polygonaceae
Origin: Southeast Asia

Vietnamese Coriander (Persicaria odorata), also known as Rau Răm, is a perennial herb native to Southeast Asia, widely used in Vietnamese, Thai, and other Southeast Asian cuisines. With its bold, peppery, and slightly citrusy flavor, this herb is often compared to cilantro (coriander) but has a more pungent taste. Its attractive, lance-shaped leaves make it both a culinary staple and an ornamental addition to herb gardens. Unlike traditional cilantro, Vietnamese Coriander thrives in warm, humid environments and can be harvested year-round in tropical and subtropical climates.

Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value

Leaves: Vietnamese Coriander has narrow, lance-shaped leaves with dark green coloring and purple or burgundy markings. The leaves are highly aromatic, with a bold, peppery flavor often used in salads, soups, and as a garnish.

Foliage: The plant has a creeping growth habit, producing dense foliage that spreads horizontally, making it an excellent ground cover or container plant.

Growth Habit: Vietnamese Coriander grows as a low-growing, creeping perennial, reaching about 12-24 inches in height and spreading outwards. It thrives in warm, moist environments.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

Culinary Uses: Vietnamese Coriander is a key ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes. It is commonly used fresh in salads (especially in Vietnamese salads like gỏi), soups (such as the popular Laksa in Malaysia and Singapore), and as a garnish for grilled meats, fish, and fresh spring rolls. The herb’s strong flavor complements spicy, savory, and sour dishes. It is often used as a substitute for cilantro, especially in warm climates where cilantro does not thrive.

Medicinal Uses: In traditional medicine, Vietnamese Coriander has been used to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and treat stomach ailments. The leaves contain antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, which can promote overall health and wellness.