
Ingredient
Thai basil
The Fragrant Herb: Thai Basil
Thai basil has a strong, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor with hints of anise and mint. It has dark green leaves with purple stems and flowers. The leaves are tender and have a smooth, glossy texture. Thai basil is commonly used in Thai, Vietnamese, and other Southeast Asian cuisines.
Origins and history
Thai basil is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, and has been used in traditional Thai cooking for centuries. It is an essential ingredient in dishes like Thai basil chicken and green curry. Thai basil is also grown in other parts of the world, including the United States and Europe.
Nutritional information
Thai basil is a good source of vitamins A and K, as well as antioxidants. It also contains essential oils that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Allergens
No known allergens associated with Thai basil.
How to select
Choose Thai basil with vibrant green leaves and avoid any that are wilted or discolored. Look for fresh, aromatic bunches with no signs of yellowing or browning. Opt for organically grown Thai basil if available.
Storage recommendations
To store Thai basil, trim the stems and place them in a glass of water like a bouquet. Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and store in the refrigerator. Alternatively, Thai basil can be frozen or dried for later use.
How to produce
Thai basil can be easily grown in a sunny spot in the garden or in containers. It prefers well-drained soil and regular watering. Pinch off the flowers to encourage leaf growth and prolong the plant's lifespan.
Preparation tips
Thai basil is commonly used in stir-fries, curries, soups, and salads. It pairs well with ingredients like garlic, chili, coconut milk, and fish sauce. Add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its flavor and aroma.
Substitutions
Italian basil or holy basil can be used as substitutes for Thai basil, although they have slightly different flavors. Italian basil has a sweeter taste, while holy basil has a spicier, peppery flavor.
Culinary uses
Thai basil is widely used in Thai cuisine, particularly in dishes like pad Thai, green curry, and tom yum soup. It is also used in Vietnamese cuisine, such as in pho and spring rolls.
Availability
Thai basil is commonly available in Southeast Asia, the United States, and Europe.
More ingredients from this category » Browse all

Vietnamese mint
The Zesty Herb

Greek bush basil
The Fragrant Herb of the Mediterranean: Greek Bush Basil

Asiatic pennywort
The Healing Herb: Unveiling the Wonders of Asiatic Pennywort

Lesser calamint
The Mediterranean Herb Wonder

Rice paddy herb
The Fragrant Gem

Basil
The King of Herbs

Hoary basil
The Aromatic Herb: Hoary Basil

Holy basil
The Sacred Herb: Holy Basil

Chinese mesona
The Cooling Elixir

Lemon balm
The Zesty Herb: Lemon Balm

Lizard tail
The Enigmatic Delicacy: Lizard Tail

Lemon basil
The Zesty Herb: Unveiling the Delights of Lemon Basil
Recipes using Thai basil » Browse all

Krpice sa zeljem (Vietnamese Style)
Vietnamese-Inspired Cabbage Noodles

Apulian-style Hayashi Rice
Saporito Hayashi Rice: A Taste of Apulia in Every Bite

Lẩu mắm Châu Đốc - Vietnamese Fermented Fish Hot Pot
Umami Delight: Vietnamese Fermented Fish Hot Pot

Vietnamese-style Spring Rolls
Fresh and Flavorful Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Uova alla Monachina with Tomato and Basil
Sunny-side Up Eggs Italian Style

Nasi Kerabu with Spicy Herbaceous Sambal
Malaysian Delight: Vibrant Nasi Kerabu with a Spicy Twist

Thai-inspired Spicy Chicken Rieslingspaschtéit
Fiery Thai Twist on Rieslingspaschtéit

Italian-style Şakşuka
Mediterranean Vegetable Stew: A Taste of Italy

Italian Horse Meat Meatballs
Savory Delights: Italian Horse Meat Meatballs with a Twist

Mediterranean Lasagne
Sun-kissed Layers of Mediterranean Flavors: Mediterranean Lasagne

Coste al Sugo with a Twist
Savory Swiss Chard in Tomato Sauce

Thai-inspired Coconut Curry with Tender Beef
Coconut Curry Delight: A Thai Twist on Medvjeđa šapa