Description
Basil is a culinary herb in the mint family. It is native to Africa and Southeast Asia, but today it’s grown worldwide. The type that’s most common in Western cooking is sweet basil, the plant that gives pesto its bright green colour and peppery flavour. But there are dozens of different types and cultivars of the plant. The most common major types of basil are:
- Sweet basil, bright green and used in Italian and Mediterranean cooking (a common cultivar is called Genovese basil).
- Lemon basil, a light green variety with a citrus scent.
- Thai basil, a variety with a purple stem and anise flavour used in Southeast Asian cuisine (see Thai Basil Guide).
- Holy basil, a variety with a spicy, musky scent also used in Southeast Asian cuisine.
What does basil taste like? Sweet basil has a fresh flavour, with a finish of black pepper and subtle anise and mint notes. It’s milder than the Thai variety, which has a strong black licorice flavour.
Where to find it? Basil is easy to grow at home, which is the cheapest and easiest way to access it. Or, you can find it fresh at most grocery stores in the produce section.
The best way to access basil? Grow it at home! All you need is a pot and a sunny ledge: no garden required. Here are some quick tips on how to grow basil:https://www.acouplecooks.com/how-to-grow-basil/
