Fresh Basil

Fresh Basil
US$3.00

 

Fresh basil is a popular herb known for its fragrant aroma and distinct flavor. It's a staple in many cuisines, particularly Italian and Southeast Asian.

Here's a rundown of fresh basil:

Storage:

The best way to keep fresh basil vibrant is to treat it like a bouquet of flowers:

  • Trim the stems at a 45-degree angle.

  • Place the basil in a glass or jar with about an inch of water, ensuring no leaves are submerged.

  • Loosely cover the basil and jar with a plastic bag.

  • Store it on your kitchen counter at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing basil in the refrigerator, as it can turn black and wilt quickly due to cold sensitivity.

  • Change the water every few days and re-trim the stems if needed.

    This method can keep basil fresh for one to two weeks.

If you have a large quantity of basil and want to preserve it for longer, you can freeze it:

  1. Blanch the basil leaves in boiling water for about 10 seconds, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant green color.

  2. Remove excess water by wringing them out or using a salad spinner.

  3. Arrange the blanched leaves on a cookie sheet and freeze them for several hours until solid.

  4. Once frozen, transfer the leaves to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can also blend blanched basil with a little olive oil to make pesto cubes for easy use.

Culinary Uses:

Fresh basil is incredibly versatile and adds a sweet, slightly peppery, and aromatic note to many dishes. Some popular uses include:

  • Pesto: The classic use for basil, typically blended with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.

  • Salads: Tearing fresh basil leaves into salads, especially caprese salad (tomatoes, mozzarella, basil), adds a burst of flavor.

  • Pastas: Stir it into tomato sauces, sprinkle it over pasta dishes as a garnish, or use it in a basil cream sauce.

  • Pizzas: Add fresh basil leaves as a topping right before or after baking for optimal flavor and color.

  • Sandwiches and Toasts: A few fresh leaves elevate simple sandwiches, avocado toast, or bruschetta.

  • Soups: Puree it into cold soups like gazpacho or add it to warm tomato basil soup.

  • Main Dishes: Incorporate it into chicken dishes, shrimp, roasted vegetables, or even grilled salmon.

  • Vinaigrettes: Blend it into a fresh basil vinaigrette for salads or drizzling over cooked vegetables.

  • Desserts: Surprisingly, basil pairs well with certain fruits like strawberries and blueberries in desserts like ice cream or fruit salads.

Health Benefits:

Fresh basil is not just delicious; it also offers several health benefits:

  • Rich in Antioxidants: Basil is packed with antioxidants like flavonoids, polyphenols, and essential oils (such as eugenol), which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress.

  • Anti-inflammatory Properties: Its volatile oils have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially helping with conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

  • Antimicrobial Properties: Sweet basil essential oil has demonstrated potent antimicrobial effects against various strains of bacteria.

  • Supports Heart Health: It may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and its magnesium content can improve blood flow.

  • May Help Regulate Blood Sugar: Some studies suggest basil can help lower elevated blood sugar levels.

  • Boosts Mental Health: Certain compounds in basil, particularly in Holy Basil (Tulsi), have been linked to reduced stress, anxiety, and improved cognitive function.

  • Rich in Nutrients: It's a good source of Vitamin K (important for bone health and blood clotting), Vitamin A, iron, calcium, manganese, and magnesium.