Crossword Genius

What’s it for? Heavens to grind, dear, in curries! (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

coriander

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'dear in curries' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how one could define the other.

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for coriander that I've seen before include "Aromatic herb" , "Parsley-like herb used in cooking" , "ingredient of coronation chicken?" , "Carried on with the strange herb" , "An aromatic seed; carried on (anag.)" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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