Coriander whether in the form of fresh leaves, coriander leaf powder, or dry coriander leaf powder is a quintessential spice in Indian kitchens. But which states use it the most? Let’s explore the regions where coriander is both harvested and deeply woven into culinary habits.
India leads the world in coriander production, with top-producing states including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Rajasthan dominates, contributing over 60% of the nation’s coriander crop, thanks to its suitable climate and soil. Madhya Pradesh follows closely Kumbhraj is even hailed as a national coriander seed hub.
While production is highest in those heartland states, consumption of coriander (especially in powdered form) spans the entire country. A national spice-use study found that coriander seeds are consumed regularly in over 87% of both urban and rural households—making it one of the most frequently used spices, after essentials like turmeric and red chili.
Though this study doesn’t separate leaf powder usage, the popularity of coriander leaf powder and dry coriander leaf powder can be inferred: states with strong culinary traditions around herbs—like West Bengal, Odisha, Kerala, and others—rely heavily on dried leaf powders to extend flavour longevity, especially during monsoons when fresh coriander spoils quickly.
West India (Maharashtra, Gujarat): Frequently uses coriander powder along with fennel and sesame, especially in kokum-based dishes and spicy snacks.
Odisha & Andhra Pradesh: Their cuisines favor fresh greens and may include coriander leaf powder for seasoning dals and chutneys when fresh leaves aren’t available.
Kerala: While chiefly using curry leaves, dry coriander powder remains a key spice in gravies and meat dishes due to its warm, citrusy depth.
Storage-Friendly: Ideal during heavy monsoons when fresh coriander wilt fast.
Nutrient-Rich & Flavor-Packed: Though slightly milder than fresh leaves, it retains key compounds for taste and health benefits.
Culinary Versatility: Perfect for tempering dals, sprinkling on snacks, or blending into homemade spice mixes.
Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh lead the pack in coriander production, but when it comes to actual usage of coriander leaf powder or dry coriander leaf powder, it’s the entire Indian subcontinent from the West to the East, North to South—that embraces it wholeheartedly.