What Does it Taste Like?

Basil has a complex flavor that can be described as sweet, spicy, floral, and peppery. It has a strong aroma that can enhance any dish. Basil leaves are usually green, but they can also be purple, red, or variegated. They have a smooth and delicate texture that can be easily torn or chopped.

Varieties we grow

Aroma

The Aroma variety of basil is a type of sweet basil that has a delightful fragrance and flavor. It has large, shiny, bright green leaves that are smooth and tender. The leaves have a sweet and mild taste, with hints of anise and citrus. The Aroma basil is ideal for adding fresh to salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes, as it enhances the flavor without overpowering it

Why Should I Eat It?

Basil is not only delicious, but also nutritious. It is rich in vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health. It also contains vitamin A, which supports vision and immune system. Basil also has antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties that can protect against oxidative stress, inflammation, and infections. Basil can also help with digestion, mood, and memory.

Basil

June - September

Basil is a fragrant herb that belongs to the mint family. It has been cultivated for thousands of years and is widely used in cuisines around the world. Basil is also known as the king of herbs, because of its royal history and its versatility in cooking.

Recommended Storage

Refrigerate

Room Temperature

Freeze

Dehydrate

How Do I Store It?

Short Term

Basil is a delicate herb that can wilt or spoil quickly if not stored properly. Here are some of the best methods for storing basil short term:

In a glass of water: You can trim the stems of the basil and place them in a glass of water, like a bouquet of flowers. You can cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and keep them on the counter or in the fridge. This method can keep the basil fresh for up to a week.
In a damp paper towel: You can wrap the basil leaves gently in a damp paper towel and place them in a resealable plastic bag. You can store them in the fridge or the freezer. This method can keep the basil fresh for up to a few days.

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Long Term

Freeze: You can freeze basil leaves whole or chopped, in ice cube trays or freezer bags. You can also freeze basil in oil, vinegar, or as pesto. Freezing basil can retain its flavor and color for up to a year, but it may lose some of its texture and aroma.
Dehydrate: You can dehydrate basil leaves in an oven, a microwave, or a dehydrator. You can store them in airtight containers and keep them in the pantry. Dehydrating basil can preserve its flavor and color for up to a year, but it may lose some of its texture and aroma.

How Do I Cook It?

Basil is a versatile herb that can be used in many ways. Here are some of the best methods for cooking basil:

Fresh: Fresh basil is best used at the end of cooking or as a garnish, to preserve its flavor and aroma. You can add fresh basil to salads, sandwiches, soups, sauces, pizzas, pastas, and more.
Dried: Dried basil has a more concentrated flavor than fresh basil, so you need to use less of it. You can add dried basil at the beginning or during cooking, to infuse its flavor into the dish. You can use dried basil in stews, casseroles, marinades, rubs, and more.
Fried: Fried basil is a crispy and tasty snack that can also be used as a topping or a garnish. You can fry basil leaves in hot oil until they turn dark green and crisp. You can sprinkle some salt and pepper on them and enjoy them as they are, or add them to dishes like curries, rice, noodles, and more.

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Recommended Recipes

Pasta Primavera with Italian Sausage

Summer Minestrone with Garlic Scape Pesto

Fiori di Zucca Fritti

Roasted Vegetable Sandwiches with Creamy Herb Spread

Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Risotto

Barley Bowls with Asparagus and Cannellini Beans

What Goes Well With It?

Basil has a distinctive flavor that can complement many other ingredients. Here are some of the best flavor pairings for basil:

Tomato: Tomato and basil are a classic combination that can create a fresh and savory taste. You can make a simple tomato-basil sauce, a caprese salad, or a bruschetta with these two ingredients.
Cheese: Cheese and basil are another delicious pairing that can add creaminess and richness to any dish. You can use cheese like mozzarella, parmesan, ricotta, or feta with basil. You can make a cheese-basil dip, a cheese-basil quiche, or a cheese-basil pizza with these two ingredients.
Lemon: Lemon and basil are a refreshing pairing that can add brightness and acidity to any dish. You can use lemon juice, zest, or slices with basil. You can make a lemon-basil dressing, a lemon-basil sorbet, or a lemon-basil chicken with these two ingredients.
Garlic: Garlic and basil are a flavorful pairing that can add depth and spice to any dish. You can use garlic cloves, minced, or roasted with basil. You can make a garlic-basil pesto, a garlic-basil bread, or a garlic-basil pasta with these two ingredients.
Chicken: Chicken and basil are a savory and versatile pairing that can work well in many dishes. You can make a chicken-basil soup, a chicken-basil casserole, or a chicken-basil pizza with these two ingredients.
Melon: Melon and basil are a sweet and refreshing pairing that can create a summer sensation. You can make a melon-basil salad, a melon-basil smoothie, or a melon-basil popsicle with these two ingredients. Melon provides a juicy and crisp contrast to the fragrant and spicy basil, creating a balanced and delicious combination.