Coriander root noun

The root of the coriander plant, prized in Thailand as a seasoning in its own right.

Earthier and more intense than the leaf, with a warm, almost nutty depth.

Scrub well, then pound with garlic and white peppercorns into the classic Thai marinade base for grilled meats, or into curry pastes. Freeze roots whole; they are hard to find and keep well.

Thai markets sell coriander with the root attached precisely because the root is the point. The trio of coriander root, garlic and white pepper (sam gler) is the oldest seasoning in Thai cooking, predating the arrival of chillies.