Basil is one of the most popular herbs used in cooking today. Its versatility spans a variety of cuisines, including Italian, Thai, and Vietnamese, making it a staple in kitchens around the world.

Culinary Uses of Basil

Basil has a warm, aromatic, yet gentle flavor, with a subtle hint of spicy aniseed. One of its most famous pairings is with tomatoes, whether raw in salads like the classic Italian Caprese or cooked into rich tomato sauces for pasta and other dishes.

Another well-known use of basil is as the key ingredient in pesto sauce. This Italian favorite (called pistou in France) is made by blending fresh basil leaves with pine nuts, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic to create a vibrant green sauce. Pesto is often tossed with pasta, used as a spread, or served as a dipping sauce.

Fresh vs. Dried Basil

Basil is widely available in both fresh and dried forms, but as with most herbs, fresh basil is generally considered superior. If you come across an abundance of fresh basil, there are ways to preserve it. While drying basil in a low oven is an option, it tends to result in a loss of flavor. A better method is to puree the leaves and freeze them in ice cube trays. These basil ice cubes can be conveniently added to your recipes straight from the freezer.

Growing Your Own Basil

Fresh basil can be expensive, but growing your own is a cost-effective and rewarding alternative. It's one of the easier herbs to cultivate, making it ideal for beginners.

Basil thrives in warm, sunny environments, so planting it in a sheltered spot is essential. If you have a south-facing patio or terrace, growing it in a pot there is ideal. Plus, if it’s near your kitchen, it’s easy to pick fresh leaves whenever you need them.

To encourage bushy growth, pinch out the top young leaves regularly. This will stimulate sideways growth, producing a fuller plant with more leaves. Frequent harvesting will also keep the plant vigorous and productive.

Since basil is a tender annual, it won’t survive in cold weather. You can extend its life by bringing it indoors when the temperature drops or by starting a succession of new plants indoors to ensure a year-round supply.

Health and Varieties of Basil

Although primarily a culinary herb, basil has minor antiseptic properties and is considered helpful for digestion. As a member of the mint family, basil shares some common traits with its relatives, but its use in herbal medicine is limited.

There are several varieties of basil to choose from. The most popular is Genovese basil, known for its authentic Italian flavor and aroma. Another variety is the purple-leaved "holy basil," commonly used in Asian cooking.

A Culinary Essential

Whether you choose to grow it yourself or buy it fresh, basil is a treat for the senses and a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire. From pesto to pasta, basil’s distinctive flavor will elevate any dish and enhance your overall cooking experience.