Types of Basil
Basil is an herb that is often used fresh and added at the last moment of cooking. It's added last because heat robs basil of its flavor, as does drying the herb. This herb is often found in northern Italian cooking, as well as in the culinary offerings of northeast Asia. Although there is some flavor variety within the different cultivars of basil, a pungent and slightly sweet smell are indicative of the herb. Does this Spark an idea?
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Genovese Basil
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Gnocci pairs well with basil pesto. Similar to sweet basil, this varietal is considered a good choice for Italian dishes. It has a slightly sweet taste with a strong scent of cloves. The plants can grow to about 2 feet in height and seem bushy due to the size of the leaves. The leaves are lightly wrinkled and turn under a bit. Genovese basil can be found in fresh pestos, Caprese salad, in tomato sauces and soups.
Lemon Basil
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Using lemon basil in salad dressing can brighten the taste of salads. The delicate citrus scent of lemon basil is used to flavor salad dressings and teas. In its raw state, it also is a nice addition to salad greens. The plant itself is characterized by narrow, flat leaves and looks spindlier than its Genovese cousin. This type of basil also is known as "hoary basil." For a simple vinaigrette dressing, mix fresh basil with some olive oil, vinegar, garlic and a touch of honey.
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Thai Basil
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Thai basil brings a slight licorice flavor to soups and meats. This varietal of basil has a more pronounced licorice flavor and a subtle scent of mint. The stems and flowers are purple, and the leaves have a purplish hue to them. This herb adds not only a flavor element to a dish but also a different color than other basils. Thai basil can be added straight to salads or used to marinate meats before cooking.
Purple Ruffles Basil
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This basil is burgundy and purple in color with hints of green throughout. It often is used only as a decorative plant, and many gardeners may not realize they have basil in their yard. When used in cooking, the herb has a similar flavor to genovese and can be used in the same dishes. It grows slightly smaller than its cousins and tops out at about 1 1/2 feet tall. It is often left to flower as the pink flowers not only look nice but are a colorful addition to fresh salads.
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References
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