Can You Juice Cilantro Stems

Yes, you can juice cilantro stems, and they add a fresh, vibrant flavor to juices, smoothies, and cocktails.
 
In fact, cilantro stems are just as edible and aromatic as the leaves, and many cooks actually prefer them for their concentrated flavor.
 
So if you’ve been tossing those stems in the trash, you’re missing out on a free and flavorful ingredient.
 
In this post, we’ll cover why you can juice cilantro stems, the best ways to do it, and a few tips to keep your juice tasting amazing.
 
Let’s jump right in.
 

Why You Can Juice Cilantro Stems

You can juice cilantro stems because they’re completely edible and packed with flavor.
 
Here’s why they work so well in a juicer:
 

1. Cilantro Stems Are Edible and Safe

Cilantro stems are not just a throwaway part of the plant.
 
They’re tender, safe to eat, and loaded with the same essential oils that give cilantro leaves their signature taste.
 
In many professional kitchens, chefs actually reach for the stems first when they want a punchier cilantro flavor.
 
So when you juice cilantro stems, you’re not doing anything risky or unusual.
 
You’re just using more of the herb you already bought.
 

2. The Stems Hold More Flavor Than the Leaves

Here’s a fun fact: the stems of cilantro often contain a higher concentration of aromatic oils than the leaves.
 
That means when you juice cilantro stems, you get a bolder, more intense cilantro taste.
 
If you love cilantro, this is a win.
 
If you’re on the fence about it, you might want to start with just a few stems and adjust from there.
 

3. Juicing Cilantro Stems Reduces Waste

Think about how often you buy a bunch of cilantro, use the leaves, and toss the stems.
 
That’s money and flavor going straight into the compost bin.
 
When you juice cilantro stems, you stretch every bunch further.
 
It’s a small habit that saves money and cuts down on food waste at the same time.
 
Plus, you get more juice for your effort.
 

4. Cilantro Stems Blend Well With Other Juices

Cilantro stems play nicely with a wide range of fruits and vegetables.
 
They pair beautifully with cucumber, green apple, lime, pineapple, and even carrot.
 
So when you juice cilantro stems alongside these ingredients, you get a balanced drink that isn’t overpowering.
 
The stems add a bright, herbal note that makes green juices taste fresher.
 

How to Juice Cilantro Stems the Right Way

Juicing cilantro stems is simple, but a few small steps make a big difference.
 
Here’s how to do it properly:
 

1. Wash the Stems Thoroughly

Cilantro stems can trap dirt and grit near the base.
 
Rinse them under cold running water and rub gently with your fingers.
 
If the stems are especially muddy, soak them in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes.
 
Pat them dry before juicing so you don’t water down your drink.
 

2. Trim Away Tough or Woody Ends

The very bottom of the stems can be tough and fibrous.
 
Trim off about an inch from the base before you juice cilantro stems.
 
The rest of the stem should be tender enough to go straight into your juicer.
 

3. Feed Stems Into the Juicer With Watery Produce

Cilantro stems don’t produce much juice on their own.
 
So feed them into the juicer alongside watery fruits and veggies like cucumber, celery, or apple.
 
This helps push the cilantro through and ensures you extract every drop of flavor.
 

4. Use a Blender If You Don’t Have a Juicer

No juicer? No problem.
 
You can still juice cilantro stems by blending them with a little water or coconut water.
 
Then strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or nut milk bag.
 
The result is a fresh, vibrant cilantro juice you can use in drinks or recipes.
 

Tips for Getting the Best Flavor From Cilantro Stems

A few smart moves will make your cilantro stem juice taste even better.
 
Here’s what to keep in mind:
 

1. Use Stems Within a Few Days of Buying

Cilantro stems lose flavor and crispness over time.
 
For the best results, juice cilantro stems within three to five days of bringing them home.
 
Store the bunch in a glass of water in the fridge to keep it fresh longer.
 

2. Balance the Flavor With Citrus

Cilantro has a strong, earthy taste.
 
A squeeze of lime or lemon juice brightens it up and keeps your drink from tasting too grassy.
 
Citrus also helps preserve the juice if you’re making it ahead of time.
 

3. Don’t Overdo It

A little cilantro goes a long way.
 
Start with a small handful of stems per glass of juice.
 
You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s blended in.
 

4. Drink It Fresh

Cilantro juice tastes best right after you make it.
 
If you need to store it, keep it in an airtight jar in the fridge and drink it within a day.
 
The flavor fades quickly, so fresh is always the way to go.
 

5. Try It in More Than Just Juice

Once you juice cilantro stems, you’ll find plenty of uses.
 
Add the juice to salad dressings, marinades, cocktails, or even soups.
 
It’s a simple way to bring a fresh, herbaceous kick to all kinds of dishes.
 

So, Can You Juice Cilantro Stems?

Yes, you can juice cilantro stems, and it’s a smart way to use more of the herb while boosting flavor and cutting waste.
 
Cilantro stems are edible, aromatic, and packed with the same oils that make the leaves so popular.
 
Just wash them well, trim the tough ends, and pair them with watery produce for the best results.
 
With a few simple steps, you can turn those “throwaway” stems into a fresh, flavorful addition to your juices and recipes.