The Reason Why Some People Hate Cilantro
July 27, 2023
source: Pexels
Picture this: you’re sitting at a fancy dinner party, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the culinary masterpiece that your host has been raving about. The aroma of deliciousness fills the air, and your anticipation reaches its peak as the dish is set before you. But as soon as you take the first bite, your taste buds revolt, and you can’t help but cringe at the overwhelming taste of… soap? Yes, you’ve just encountered cilantro, the herb that divides nations and stirs up passionate debates in the culinary world.
For some, cilantro is a culinary delight, adding a fresh and zesty kick to dishes. They heap it generously on their tacos, sprinkle it over salads, and toss it into their salsa without a second thought. I personally belong to that group. Cilantro is everything and I love it! But for others, cilantro is nothing short of a culinary catastrophe, turning every meal it touches into an inedible soap opera.
So, what’s the scientific reason behind this polarizing herb? It all comes down to our genes. Yes, you read that right – your DNA might be responsible for your intense hatred (or love) of cilantro.
You see, cilantro contains a compound called E-2-decenal, which is also found in soaps and lotions. This compound is responsible for the herb’s distinctive and somewhat controversial flavor. For those who love cilantro, this flavor is an appealing and tantalizing twist to their dishes. But for those who hate it, that soapy taste is overpowering, making cilantro a sworn enemy on their plates.
Research has shown that the aversion to cilantro has a genetic basis. A group of scientists conducted a study and found that a specific cluster of olfactory-receptor genes is responsible for detecting the soapy aroma of cilantro. Those who have certain variations of these genes are more likely to perceive the soap-like taste, leading to the widespread cilantro haters’ club.
But here’s the twist – cilantro aversion isn’t just a random love-it-or-hate-it phenomenon. It seems that culture and exposure play a significant role as well. In countries where cilantro is a staple in their cuisine, people have grown accustomed to its flavor, and their brains have learned to interpret it differently. In contrast, in places where cilantro is less common, the soapy taste might be more pronounced and less enjoyable for those with the genetic predisposition.
Intriguingly, some cilantro haters have managed to overcome their aversion through repeated exposure. By gradually introducing cilantro into their meals, they’ve trained their brains to accept the herb’s taste as a normal and even pleasant flavor. It’s almost like turning a soap opera into a love story through sheer willpower and perseverance.
So, the next time you find yourself pulling a face at the mere sight of cilantro, remember that it’s not just your taste buds being picky – it’s your genes playing a role in this culinary drama. But fear not, adventurous foodies! If you’re determined enough, you might just turn this soapy saga into a love affair with cilantro.
Whether you adore cilantro or avoid it like the plague, one thing is certain – food is all about personal preferences. So, embrace your taste buds, revel in your culinary adventures, and let the cilantro drama unfold as you embark on your delicious journey through the world of flavors!