How to Blanch Basil

Blanch basil to preserve its flavor and color.

Basil is a fragrant and flavorful herb rich in Vitamin K and is used to make pesto and flavor sauces. The term "blanch" means to partially cook something to preserve the flavor and color. You can use blanched basil in recipes that require it. If you plan on freezing basil, blanching it beforehand preserves its freshness. Blanching basil takes very little time and is done in a similar manner as blanching other herbs. Does this Spark an idea?

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Cooking pot
Wooden spoon
Bowl
Ice
Strainer (sieve)

Instructions

- 1
  
  Fill a large bowl half way with cold water and add an equal amount of ice. The bowl should be large enough to place your strainer in.
- 2
  
  Bring a large pot of water to boil. It should also be big enough to hold your strainer.
- 3
  
  Put basil leaves in the strainer. When the water boils rapidly, place the strainer in the water for 15 seconds. Stir the basil with a wooden spoon during the 15 seconds so the basil is blanched evenly.
- 4
  
  Remove the strainer and immediately and place it in the ice water for about 10 seconds to stop the cooking process.
- 5
  
  Drain the basil, squeeze the water out and dry it with paper towels or a cloth towel.