Basil Leaves, Cut and Dried

Description

Dried Basil Leaves

Basil leaves are supplied dried in quantities from a 10g discovery pouch up to a 500g bulk pouch. The flavours are truly magnificent; they entail a strong anise-like zest with a sweet scent perfect for creating sumptuous dishes. Its pervading, clove-like aroma makes it such an ideal complement to tomatoes that it is often referred to as ‘the tomato herb’.

Basil also complements other vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini (courgette), squash and spinach. When added within the last half an hour of cooking, it enhances the flavour of vegetable and legume (split peas, lentil) soups. Most salads, especially those with tomato, benefit greatly from the addition of basil.

Country of Origin: Egypt

Latin Name: Ocimum basilicum

Plant Family: Lamiaceae

Other Names include Common or Sweet Basil, Saint Joseph’s Wort, Basilique, Basilicum, Bassilico, Albahaca Menor, Voly Mynte & Rukusuku.

Description: Basil is a highly aromatic, annual bushy herb native to Southern Asia, now grown in many temperate countries around the world. It grows to a height of 30-60cm dependent on the variety and has square stems, with oval, toothed, glossy leaves, which are dark green in colour; Some varieties such as Purple Ruffles can have a wavy edge and reddish-purple colouring. The small, two-lipped flowers present in whorls and are white to pale lilac in colour. Basil contains vitamins A & C and is rich in calcium and iron.

Brief History: Indications are that Basil may have originated even farther east of Asia than some historians believe. Ancient records dating back to 907 A.D. mention it growing in the Hunan region of China. Today, the herb is used for more than just a food flavouring,  it is often found in perfumery, incense and herbal remedies too.

Storage: Store in cool, dry and dark conditions away from direct sunlight. Recommended storage information is given on the product packaging.