Basil is a very popular herb used as medicine as well as to flavor food. It is an important part of Italian seasoning. The leaves, seeds, and flower are all used in some form or other. It is a vibrant and aromatic herb known for its fresh flavors.
Where the name comes from
Basil’s name comes from the Greek word basileus meaning king. Its scientific name is Ocimum basilicum. Though it is associated mainly with Italy and other Mediterranean countries, it is believed that basil originated from India.
What basil looks like
Basil has varied sizes of leaves that are elongated, thin or rounded. The color of the leaves also varies from green, purple to multicolored. The size of the plant varies from 8 inches to 3 feet. Basil flowers are white or purple in color. They can be planted from seed as well as rooted from cuttings. If they are pruned regularly they grow bushy. In winter it can also be transferred indoor.
Learn more about basil and other herbs - Everything You Need to Know About Herbs
Culinary uses of basil
It is mainly used as a seasoning. One can season tomato sauce, salad dressing, cooked vegetables, pizzas, other Italian dishes and Caprese salad with basil. Basil leaves are also used in dried form. Popular Italian seasoning has dried basil in it.
One can use basil in desserts like ice cream, custard or sorbet. Thai food uses basil to thicken its consistency.Other uses include the oil from basil which is used in perfumes and medicines.
Availability of basil
Basil is harvested sporadically to encourage re-growth. It is basically grown in the summer season. However, it is available in the market throughout the year. Harvesters prefer to freeze basil rather than keep it in dried form. When it is frozen its color and flavor are retained better. To preserve it, one has to strip and clean the basil and then freeze the leaves on a baking sheet and then transfer to bags. However, people who prefer them dried can also preserve them in dried form. For this, just bind the stems of several plants and keep them hanging in a dry place.
Before buying basil make sure that it is firm, evenly colored and without black spots. Also it should not have signs of wilting.
There are almost twelve varieties of basil. Sweet and Genoa are the most popular forms available in the market for culinary use. Other varieties are Persian Anise Basil, Lemon and Cinnamon.
Learn more about basil and other herbs - Everything You Need to Know About Herbs
