Whole Coriander Seeds Coriander seeds come from the coriander plant, a member of the parsley family. It has a mild, distinct taste highlighted by notes of lemon and sage. The leaves of the coriander plant are referred to as cilantro or Chinese parsley and are very popular in Asian and Mexican cooking. Ground coriander lends itself to sweets and savories alike, and is found in Mediterranean, Indian, African and South American dishes. Add to stews and marinades, fish and meat alike, and essential to curries.