Basil – a wonderful plant with many uses

Basil is an herb with a unique taste and aroma that is very popular in cuisine all over the world.

However, its values are not limited only to culinary. In this article, we will take a closer look at basil, discussing its history, characteristics, nutritional values, medicinal properties, storage, how to grow it and where it can be used.

Basil – history, characteristics, varieties

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a plant originating from Southeast Asia and Africa. Its history dates back thousands of years, where it was valued both for its taste and medicinal properties. Basil is an annual plant that can reach from 30 cm to 1 meter in height, depending on the variety. It is also worth mentioning that there are many different varieties of basil, with different flavors and aromas, such as Italian, Thai, cinnamon and lemon basil.

Basil – nutritional values, calories and vitamins

Basil is not only an aromatic herb, but also a valuable source of nutrients. 100 grams of fresh basil contain only 22 calories, which makes it an ideal addition to low-calorie dishes. In addition, basil is rich in vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C and minerals such as magnesium, potassium and iron.

Basil – properties

Basil has many valuable health properties. First of all, it is a rich source of antioxidants that help fight free radicals and protect the body against oxidative stress. In addition, basil has anti-inflammatory properties, helps lower blood sugar levels, supports digestion and improves the condition of the skin.

Basil – uses

Basil has a wide range of uses in cooking. It is an integral ingredient of many dishes, such as pesto, salads, sauces, soups and meat dishes. Its fresh taste and aroma give dishes a unique character. Additionally, basil can be used to season olive oil, balsamic vinegar and cheese. Apart from cooking, basil is also used in natural medicine, where it is used to relieve digestive ailments, bacterial infections and respiratory problems.

Basil – how to grow? how to store? dry or freeze?

If you want to have access to fresh basil most of the year, consider growing it in a pot or garden. Basil needs plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. As for storage, it is best to keep fresh basil in the refrigerator in a glass with water or rolled up in a damp cloth. You can also dry it to make aromatic dried leaves, or freeze it in ice cubes with olive oil to have it on hand all year round.

Basil – what to add?

Basil goes perfectly with many other ingredients and dishes. You can add it to pasta, pizza, caprese salads, sandwiches, soups, curries and even fruit. Its fresh taste makes it irreplaceable as an addition to Mediterranean dishes, but also in Asian and Indian cuisine.

Your suggestions

If you have your own ideas for using basil in the kitchen or interesting experiences with growing it, please share them. Basil is a plant that gives many possibilities, so it is worth experimenting and discovering new flavors.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about culinary herbs and their uses, we also recommend reading our other articles on this topic. Herbs are not only tasty additions to dishes, but also a treasure trove of health and flavor in the kitchen.

Basil is a plant with extraordinary taste and health benefits. Its universality makes it worth having it always at hand in the kitchen. It will not only enrich the taste of dishes, but also provide the body with valuable nutrients. Additionally, growing basil at home can be a rewarding experience for culinary and gardening enthusiasts. Therefore, it is worth exploring the various possibilities of using this unique plant.