What Is Basil?
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is an aromatic plant in the mint family, native to South Asia. Known as “basilico” in Italian cooking, it is a variety with broad green leaves and a sweet aroma with a faint hint of cloves.
In Turkish cooking, basil is used both fresh as a leafy herb and dried as a seasoning. Its aroma changes quickly with heat, so it is usually added at the end of cooking.
Basil Nutrition Facts
Although basil is eaten in small amounts, it is a nutrient-dense leafy herb; 100 grams contain about 23 kcal. It is especially rich in vitamin K and vitamin A, and also contains vitamin C.
What Are the Benefits of Basil?
With its vitamin K and vitamin A content, basil is a leafy herb that can be part of a balanced diet. Research on its essential oils is ongoing; this research has not yet led to a general health recommendation.
This is general information. Basil is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Basil
Fresh basil should have bright green, broad leaves that are not wilted.
- The leaves should be bright, light-to-dark green; avoid darkened or spotted leaves.
- The bunch should smell sweet, with a faint hint of cloves.
- The stems should be upright and firm; wilted or bent stems indicate that the basil is less fresh.
How to Store Basil
Basil is sensitive to cold; its leaves may darken and lose their aroma in the refrigerator. If you place the stems in a glass of water and keep them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, they will stay fresh for 3–5 days. For longer storage, process the leaves with olive oil in a food processor and freeze them.
How to Use Basil in the Kitchen
Basil is usually added raw or at the very end of cooking; prolonged cooking drives off much of its aroma. It is a classic pairing with tomato dishes, salads, and Italian sauces.
How to Make Basil Pesto
Process fresh basil leaves with pine nuts (or walnuts), garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to make the classic Italian sauce pesto; serve it with pasta, bread, and grilled vegetables.
How to Make Basil Tea
Steep a few fresh or dried basil leaves in hot water for 5–8 minutes to make a mildly sweet, aromatic herbal tea; sweeten it with honey if desired.
What Recipes Use Basil?
Basil pesto, tomato-and-basil salad (caprese), basil pasta, and vegetable dishes cooked with olive oil are among the most popular uses. Adding basil to pizza after baking preserves its aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is basil good for?
Basil is rich in vitamins K, A, and C, and can be part of a balanced diet. It is a food and is not claimed to cure any disease.
Why do basil leaves turn dark in the refrigerator?
Because basil is a tropical plant, it is sensitive to low temperatures; the cold in a refrigerator can damage leaf cells and cause darkening. Storing it in water at room temperature prevents this problem.
What varieties of basil are there?
Sweet (Italian) basil is the most common variety; there are also varieties with different aromas and appearances, such as Thai basil and purple basil. Each is preferred in different cuisines.
Can basil be frozen?
Freezing the leaves directly can darken them, so it is recommended to process basil with olive oil and freeze it in ice cube trays; this method preserves much of its aroma.
Can dried basil replace fresh basil?
Partly. Drying intensifies and changes the aroma, so dried basil is generally used in smaller amounts than fresh basil. Use dried basil in cooked dishes, and choose fresh basil for fresh dishes and as a finishing touch.