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Basil (Domestic) Cut & Sifted

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ETA: 9/12/2022
Out of stock
$7.71 
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ETA: 9/12/2022
Out of stock
$19.26 
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Sweet basil, also known as the King of Herbs, is a member of the mint family and a culinary staple in Italian and Asian cuisines. The dried leaf imparts a spicy, mildly sweet flavor reminiscent of clover and anise.

kosher certificate information

a.
quick look

information at a glance

approximate cups to one pound17
originunited states
plant part usedleaf
processingcut & sifted
why buy dried basil leaf?Dried basil is flavorful, fragrant and highly versatile.

b.
buying & keeping

general guidelines and tips

storage tipsStore in a sealed container in a cool, dark cabinet.
appearance & aromaWhite, odorless powder.
good vs badDark green and leafy, with a mildly spicy aroma.

c.
uses

try something new

cosmeticBasil is used in various hair and skin products, including soaps, shampoos and vinegar rinses.
decorativeBasil may be added to potpourri mixes.
culinaryCommonly used to season soups, stews, braised meats, vegetable dishes, pasta and sauces.
householdUse in vinegar, alcohol and water-based natural household cleaners. Place in sachets to deter moths and other pests.
aromaticAdd to incense blends and massage oils.
wellnessBasil is usually taken in food, but can also be encapsulate as a dietary supplement.
industrialBasil is used in the perfume and cosmetics industries.
safetyBecause basil contains vitamin K, avoid large doses if you take blood-thinning medications.

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d.
flavor profile

basil

Spicy and sweet, with a hint of anise.


culinary companions

Combines well with most vegetables, especially potatoes, tomatoes and fennel.

f.
what else you should know

basil leaf

Basil is commonly grown as a cooking herb in gardens and in patio containers throughout the Mediterranean, especially in Greece and southern Italy. Basil is also widely used in Asian cuisine, most notably in Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese foods. In India, where the herb is regarded as sacred, it is sometimes referred to as holy basil, or by its Sanskrit name of Tulsi. Europeans have enjoyed basil in beers, wines and liquors for centuries. In Germany, where basil is known as Königskraut, the herb is a key seasoning used to make gherkin pickles and a traditional cream cheese and tomato spread called aufstrich.

As with many botanicals, basil is associated with a variety of superstitions that range in character from quaint to bizarre. In medieval Italy, basil was credited with bestowing loyalty and fertility to virtuous lovers, while in Romania, presenting a bouquet of basil leaves was the equivalent was a sure way to win a peasant girl’s heart. In Africa, basil was reputed to offer protection from scorpions. To the ancient Greeks, however, a good whiff of basil leaves was an invitation for scorpions to take up residence in the brain.


Biochemical Information : Essential oil, Estragol with Linalon, Lineol, Tannin, and Camphor.

 

Background: From its native India, basil was introduced into Europe in ancient times. Views and traditions associated with the herb vary widely. Some cultures regard it as a love token. Dioscorides said that it should never be taken internally, yet Pliny recommended an olfactory treatment for faintness. In Ayurvedic medicine, basil is known as tulsi and the juice is widely used. In India, basil is a most sacred plant, as is the lotus.

The scent of basil can enhance meditative practices. The plant is used in magic. Most popular as a culinary herb.

In Haiti, merchants sometimes would sprinkle an infusion to remove bad luck and attracts buyers.

Applications: 

The Greeks used basil not only to prepare aromatic baths to strengthen the nerves, but also for flavoring must (the juice pressed from grapes before fermenting), wine and liqueurs.
Basil is used in northern Germany to season the famous Hamburg eel soup and in the preparation of gherkins (pickled cucumbers).
In Italy, particularly in the south, it is found in practically every garden and widely used "
A sprig of basil in the wardrobe will keep moths and other insects at bay. Basil is a good companion to tomatoes; dislikes rue intensely. Improves growth and flavor. Repels flies and mosquitoes.

Description: Basil is an annual plant; its thin, branching root produces bushy stems growing from 1-2 feet high and bearing opposite, ovate, entire or toothed leaves which are often purplish-hued. The two-lipped flowers, varying in color from white to red, sometimes with a tinge of purple, grow in racemes from June to September. The plant is very aromatic. Tends to favor sunny banks.

Other varieties: Dwarf Spicy Globe, Dwarf Bush Basil, Lettuce-leaf basil (O. basilicum crispum), Dark Opal, Purple Ruffles, Citriodorum, Fino Verde, O. basilicum minimum,. O. sanctum, O. kill-mandscharicum, O. gratissimum, etc.

Found wild in the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world; Cultivated widely as a kitchen herb.

Infusion: Harvest before flowering.


Safety: Do not use the essential oil externally or internally in pregnancy.

for educational purposes only

This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

please be advised: 
 Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor,
especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.