The Forktionary Angle
"Delve into the fragrant world of basil with Forktionary, mastering its cultivation and diverse culinary applications for vibrant, fresh flavors."
Definition
A fragrant herb with sweet, peppery, and slightly anise-like notes, central to Italian and Southeast Asian cuisines.
Flavor Profile
The primary flavor notes for Basil are:
Chef’s Secret
To prevent fresh basil from blackening when making pesto, blanch the leaves quickly in boiling water then immediately chill in ice water before blending.
Best Substitutes
Mint
Oregano
Spinach
Buying Guide
Look for vibrant green leaves, no wilting or black spots. Avoid strong aromas of decay. Buy live plants for longest storage.