Basil is a very smelling plant with interesting purple leaves, although there are varieties with green leaves. It is not without reason that it is called "royal herb" - basil leaves are distinguished by a very persistent aroma and unexpectedly buttery taste (fat content - 2%).
Different types of basil smell differently: some have a mint, cinnamon aroma, some give off bay leaves and cloves. And Yerevan basil smells like tea and allspice.
Basil aroma is well and permanently retained in a dried plant, especially if dry basil leaves are properly stored - in an airtight container without access to air and water.
Its wonderful aromatic properties have made basil a common seasoning in Europe. Italian cuisine cannot be imagined without basil. In Russia, this spice is not so widespread. Because not everyone knows how it can be used in cooking.
Basil can be used in cooking both fresh and dried. Moreover, you can use all the ground parts of the plant - leaves, stems, seeds. Fresh basil is of the greatest value - the content of vitamins and nutrients is maximal. It is added to fresh vitamin salads. Sprinkle with fresh finely chopped basil on soups, pasta, fried fish, egg dishes, pizza.
The main rule when using this herb is not to overdo it, otherwise you can ruin the dish. And yet - you need to add basil to the dish at the very end, when the cooked food has already been removed from the fire.
Fresh basil can be added to ready-made sauces - mayonnaise, ketchup and others. Sauces improved in this way will diversify the daily menu.
Basil seeds are also used in cooking - they can be added to soup, main courses, salad dressings.
It's not a bad idea to use basil to flavor the vinegar. To do this, the basil leaves are simply placed in a bottle of vinegar. A salad of raw vegetables, seasoned with such "basil" vinegar, acquires an unusual pleasant taste.
Some housewives prefer salted basil to dried. Salting basil is very simple. Put chopped basil in jars, sprinkle with salt. For every 100 grams of basil, you need 20 grams of salt. It is recommended to store basil salted in this way in the refrigerator.
And finally, the recipe for the simplest salad with fresh basil. Chop fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers and basil. Add diced mozzarella and olives. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with sunflower oil.
