How to Keep Basil Fresh and Flavorful
How to Keep Basil?
To keep basil fresh, it is important to store it properly.
Avoid refrigerating basil, as cold temperatures can damage the leaves.
Instead, store basil at room temperature between 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, with an ideal temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Basil thrives in high humidity, so increase humidity by storing the stems in water or loosely covering the basil.
Do not completely seal basil in a container, as this can create a humid environment that may cause damage.
To extend the shelf life of basil, it can be frozen as herb cubes with oil or dried by air drying or using a dehydrator.
Properly stored, basil can last up to three months when frozen or up to a year when dried.
Key Points:
- Avoid refrigerating basil to prevent damage to the leaves.
- Store basil at room temperature, ideally between 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Increase humidity by storing the stems in water or loosely covering the basil.
- Do not completely seal basil in a container to avoid creating a humid environment that may cause damage.
- Extend the shelf life of basil by freezing it as herb cubes with oil or drying it through air drying or using a dehydrator.
- Properly stored basil can last up to three months when frozen or up to a year when dried.
Did You Know?
1. Basil is believed to be a natural mosquito repellent. The strong scent of basil can discourage mosquitoes from landing and deter them from laying their eggs in the vicinity.
2. During the Roman era, basil was considered a symbol of love and fertility. It was commonly used in wedding ceremonies and given as a gift to newlyweds to bring luck and happiness to their marriage.
3. The ancient Greeks associated basil with mourning and believed that it grew best if planted near a tomb. It was believed that basil had the power to open the gates of the afterlife and allow the spirit of the deceased to pass through peacefully.
4. Basil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments. In traditional medicine, basil was believed to aid digestion, relieve stress, and even reduce the symptoms of colds and coughs.
5. The word “basil” is derived from the Greek word “basileus,” which means “king” or “royal.” This reflects the high esteem in which basil was held by ancient civilizations, who considered it to be the king of herbs due to its rich aroma and diverse uses.
Selecting And Inspecting Fresh Basil
When it comes to buying basil, it’s important to choose the freshest leaves possible for maximum flavor and longevity. Look for basil with vibrant green leaves that are free from any blemishes or dark spots. Fresh basil should have smooth, whole leaves and emit a strong herbal odor with spicy citrus notes. These characteristics are indicators of the basil’s freshness and quality.
Inspect the basil leaves carefully, ensuring that there are no signs of wilting or discoloration. Basil is highly susceptible to cold temperatures, so avoid purchasing any basil that has been exposed to extreme cold. Storing basil in the refrigerator can damage the delicate leaf tissues and cause them to turn black or brown.
- Choose basil with vibrant green leaves, free from blemishes or dark spots
- Look for smooth, whole leaves with a strong herbal odor
- Avoid basil that shows signs of wilting or discoloration
- Do not purchase basil that has been exposed to extreme cold
- Store basil properly to maintain its freshness and quality
Proper Temperature And Humidity For Basil Storage
To ensure that your basil stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible, it is crucial to store it at the right temperature and humidity levels.
The optimal storage temperature for basil is between 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, with 55 degrees Fahrenheit being ideal. Anything colder than this can cause the basil to deteriorate quickly.
Additionally, basil thrives in high humidity environments. Aim for a relative humidity of 90 to 95 percent when storing basil. This can be achieved by storing the basil stems in water or loosely covering the basil with a non-sealed covering. Increasing the humidity level will help prevent the basil leaves from drying out and losing their flavor.
Avoid storing basil in the refrigerator as cooler temperatures can significantly shorten its shelf life. The cold environment is not suitable for basil and can cause the leaves to wilt and become black or slimy.
–Store basil at the optimal temperature range of 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, with 55 degrees Fahrenheit being ideal
–Maintain a relative humidity of 90 to 95 percent to prevent the basil leaves from drying out
-*Avoid storing basil in the refrigerator as it can cause wilting and decay.
Storing Basil On The Countertop At Room Temperature
One of the best ways to store basil is by keeping it on the countertop at room temperature. To do this, wrap the basil leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a loose plastic bag. This method helps maintain the moisture level of the basil while still allowing for some airflow.
For basil with stems, trim the ends and place them in a glass jar with a few inches of water. Then, cover the jar with a plastic bag, creating a mini-greenhouse effect.
By storing basil on the countertop at room temperature, you can extend its shelf life to about 1-2 weeks. This method is particularly effective for hydroponically grown basil, which tends to last longer and is less prone to bruising.
Remember that basil can go from fresh to wilted quickly, so keep an eye on its condition and remove any browned or wilted pieces promptly to prevent them from spreading to the rest of the basil.
- Wrap basil leaves in a damp paper towel
- Place wrapped leaves in a loose plastic bag
- Trim the ends of basil stems
- Place trimmed stems in a glass jar with water
- Cover the jar with a plastic bag
- Store basil on the countertop at room temperature
Freezing Basil For Long-Term Preservation
If you have an abundance of fresh basil and want to preserve it for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. Freezing basil can be done by making herb cubes with a neutral oil and chopped basil. Simply fill an ice cube tray with the basil and oil mixture, then freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag or container for easy access.
Another method for freezing basil is to blanch individual basil leaves in boiling water for about 10 seconds, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to cool. Once cooled, drain the leaves and place them in a freezer bag or container. Frozen basil works best in cooked dishes rather than as a garnish due to changes in texture.
Frozen basil can last for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy the fresh taste of basil even in the off-season.
Drying Basil For Extended Shelf Life
Drying basil is an effective method of preserving it for a longer shelf life. To dry basil:
- Start by washing and drying the leaves thoroughly.
- Remove the stems and lay the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet in an oven set to a low temperature, around 170 degrees Fahrenheit, for about 2-4 hours. Alternatively, a dehydrator can be used to dry the basil.
Once the basil leaves are dry and crumbly, crumble them into smaller pieces and store them in an airtight container.
Some key points to remember:
- Dried basil can be used in a variety of dishes and will retain its flavor for up to a year when stored properly.
- Use approximately one teaspoon of dried basil for each tablespoon of fresh basil when following a recipe.
Guidelines For Using Dried Basil Vs. Fresh Basil
While fresh basil provides a vibrant and aromatic flavor to dishes, there are instances when dried basil can be a suitable substitute. The ratio for using dried basil is about one teaspoon dried for one tablespoon fresh. Keep in mind that the drying process can slightly alter the flavor of the basil, so adjust the quantity according to personal preference.
Fresh basil is best used in dishes where its bright flavor can shine, such as in salads, pasta sauces, or as a garnish.
Dried basil, on the other hand, is more suitable for slow-cooked dishes, soups, stews, and marinades, where its flavor has time to infuse and develop.
By understanding the proper selection, storage, and usage of basil, you can ensure that your basil stays fresh and flavorful for longer periods, allowing you to enjoy the taste of summer all year round.
- Fresh basil is best for salads, pasta sauces, and garnish
- Dried basil is great for slow-cooked dishes, soups, stews, and marinades
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to keep basil fresh?
The best way to keep basil fresh is by removing the leaves from the stems and washing and drying them thoroughly. After that, it is advisable to wrap the basil leaves with a dry paper towel and store them in a sealed plastic bag. This method helps to maintain the freshness of the basil for one to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy its vibrant flavor for an extended period.
How do you keep basil alive?
To keep basil alive, it’s crucial to maintain the right balance of moisture in the soil. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely. Keep the soil consistently damp but not saturated. While basil thrives in warm weather, it’s best to protect it from the harsh midday sun. If you notice wilting during peak summer temperatures, consider providing light shade to shield your basil plant. With proper moisture and sun protection, your basil will flourish and stay hearty.
Is it better to freeze or dry basil?
When it comes to preserving basil, freezing is the better option. Although drying basil can extend its shelf life, freezing is more beneficial in retaining its fresh taste. By washing and drying the basil before freezing, you can ensure that the herb remains flavorful and aromatic when you decide to use it later. Simply pull the leaves from the stems and freeze them for a convenient and long-lasting supply of basil.
Should you refrigerate basil?
While the temptation to refrigerate basil may seem practical, it is best to avoid doing so. Refrigeration can actually accelerate the process of basil turning black. According to Frymark, it is recommended to store packaged basil on your kitchen counter, away from direct sunlight or any other sources of heat. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your basil stays fresh and vibrant for longer periods.