Does Cilantro Taste Like Soap?
Of Course Some of This Dislike May Come Down to Simple Preference, but for Those Cilantro-Haters for Whom the Plant Tastes Like Soap, the Issue Is Genetic...
Of course some of this dislike may come down to simple preference, but for those cilantro-haters for whom the plant tastes like soap, the issue is genetic. These people have a variation in a group of olfactory-receptor genes that allows them to strongly perceive the soapy-flavored aldehydes in cilantro leaves.
What percentage of the population thinks cilantro tastes like soap?
When people say they hate cilantro, they often attribute this food feeling to a soapy aftertaste. Thanks to a new video from SciShow, we finally know why cilantro tastes like soap for some 4-14 percent of the population. "How cilantro tastes to you has a lot to do with your genes," says SciShow's Hank Green.
Can I make cilantro not taste like soap?
Scientists think that it's possible to overcome the aversion. Bruising the herb through crushing, mincing, or pulverizing (like in this Spicy Parsley-Cilantro Sauce recipe) releases some of the soapy-tasting enzymes. Cooking cilantro—instead of eating it raw—is also thought to reduce the soapiness.
Chloe Bennett explores the intersection of pop culture, streaming entertainment, digital trends, and contemporary lifestyle. Her weekly commentary reaches thousands of culture enthusiasts.
