How Much Does a Bunch of Cilantro Usually Weigh?

How Much Does a Bunch of Cilantro Weigh?

Cilantro is an aromatic herb that adds vibrant fresh flavor to many cuisines around the world. Recipes often call for cilantro by the "bunch." But if youve ever stood in front of your grocery stores cilantro selection wondering exactly how much to buy, youre not alone.

So how is a "bunch" of cilantro defined? What does a typical bunch weigh? Read on for a complete guide to understanding cilantro bunches so you buy, store, and use the right amount in recipes.

Defining a "Bunch" of Cilantro

When shopping for fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, dill, and others, youll usually see them sold in bunches. A bunch refers to several sprigs of the fresh herb loosely bundled together with twine or a band at the stems.

But what qualifies as a bunch varies slightly by herb type and specific grocery store or market. Some general guidelines for an average "bunch" of cilantro include:

• Around 8 to 12 total stems
• Uniform length stems of roughly 5 to 6 inches each
• Full leafy tops with minimal wilting or yellowing

Average Weight of a Cilantro Bunch

An approximate cilantro bunch weights 0.5 to 1 ounce on average. So if you used a kitchen scale to weigh your average supermarket cilantro bunch, expect a reading of 14 to 28 grams.

Of course, exact weights fluctuate up or down a bit based on factors like:

Stem Thickness and Leaf Density

Some cilantro bunches include stems on the thinner or thicker side. Thinner, more delicate stems naturally weigh less than thick, woodier ones. Bunches with full, plentiful leaf growth also tip scales higher than sparser bunches.

Time of Year

Growing conditions impacting cilantro production change through the seasons, with ideal temperatures and maturity timing yielding the heaviest leaves and stems.

Individual Store Variances

Some grocers and farmers aim for daintier cilantro bunches, while others select stock with bigger, heartier stems and fuller foliage.

Weights for Common Cilantro Unit Measures

Besides a loose "bunch," recipes may also specify measured units of cilantro. Heres how much an average bunch weighs for each:

• 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, lightly packed: 0.5 ounces
• 1/3 cup cilantro leaves, lightly packed: 0.75 ounces
• 1/2 cup cilantro leaves, lightly packed: 1 ounce
• 1 cup cilantro leaves, lightly packed: 2 ounces
• 14 cup chopped cilantro: 0.65 ounces
• 12 cup chopped cilantro: 1.3 ounces
• 1 cup chopped cilantro: 2.6 ounces

Converting Bunches to Cups

To quickly break down how many cups come in a cilantro bunch:

• A half-ounce bunch equals ~ 14 to 1/3 cup leaves
• A one-ounce bunch equals ~ 12 to 2/3 cup leaves

These conversions account for separating and lightly packing just the leaves without excess stem.

How to Store Cilantro Bunches to Maximize Freshness

To make your cilantro bunches last as long as possible:

Keep Stems Moist

As soon as you get home from the store, snip the bottoms of the stems at a diagonal and put the bunch roots-down in a tall glass with about an inch of water. Cover with a plastic bag.

Refrigerate Right Away

Even properly trimmed and hydrated, cilantro starts to degrade in quality fast at room temperature. For best quality, store freshly cut bunches chilled in the fridge.

Rinse Right Before Using

Dont pre-wash cilantro until youre ready to incorporate into dishes. Excess moisture speeds the spoilage process.

Use within 5 Days

Stored properly as outlined, fresh cilantro bunches keep well for 4 to 5 days before wilting. Use immediately for peak flavor and texture.

Cilantro Measurement Conversions

When working with cilantro in recipes, it also helps to know common conversions between measurement types:

Cilantro Bunch Conversions

• 1 small bunch = ~3 ounces chopped = 12 cup chopped leaves
• 1 medium bunch = ~4 ounces chopped = 2/3 cup chopped leaves
• 1 large/extra large bunch = ~5 ounces chopped = 1 cup chopped leaves

Converting Cilantro Leaves to Chopped

• 14 cup leaves = ~14 cup chopped
• 12 cup leaves = ~13 to 12 cup chopped
• 1 cup leaves = ~34 cup chopped

Converting Stems to Leaves

As a general rule of thumb, cilantro bunches include about:

• 2 parts leaves : 1 part stems

So for example, expect roughly 12 cup chopped stems from a bunch with 1 cup chopped leaves.

Sample Cilantro Bunch Recipes

Here are some example recipes using typical cilantro bunch measures so you know exactly how much to buy and prep:

Cilantro-Lime Rice

Makes 4 to 6 servings

• 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium bunch cilantro, chopped
• Juice from 2 limes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Southwestern Black Bean Salad

Makes 6 to 8 servings

• 3 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 large red onion, diced
• 1 large bunch cilantro, chopped
• Juice from 2 limes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1-1 12 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 avocado, chopped

Chicken Fajita Veggie Bowls

Makes 4 servings

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cups cooked chicken, sliced
• 1 cup rice
• 1 medium bunch cilantro, chopped
• Juice from 1 lime
• 12 cup salsa

Get creative adding the bright flavor of cilantro bunches into more of your cooking now that you know exactly what a typical "bunch" means weight and measurement-wise!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.