How to Store Fresh Basil: 3 Basil Storage Methods

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a member of the mint family, along with oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Basil is considered a tender herb, with a soft stem and soft leaves, similar to cilantro and parsley. The basil plant is recognizable for its glossy, deep green color and oblong, pointed leaves.

While its point of origin is a matter of debate, basil is believed to have first been cultivated in China, India, or Africa thousands of years ago. Today, basil is commonly grown in Italy, France, Egypt, Morocco, California, and other warm locales around the world. The basil flavor is a balance between sweet and savory, with hints of mint, anise, and pepper. Similar to other fresh herbs, basil is used to flavor soups or sauces. The fresh basil leaves are also used as a garnish, adding a fresh flavor to any dish.

After washing basil, remove any brown stems and leaves before storage. Follow one of these three methods to store this fresh herb:

1. 1. Countertop: Store the bunch of basil in a glass jar at room temperature on the kitchen counter and out of direct sunlight, like a bouquet of flowers. Change the water every couple of days to maintain freshness. The cut basil will last around two weeks.
2. 2. Fridge: After you wash the basil, dry it with a paper towel or salad spinner. Wrap a paper towel around the basil and place it in an airtight container or a ziplock plastic bag. Store it in the vegetable crisper alongside other salad greens. Basil should last about two weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
3. 3. Dried: You can also dry basil for later usage. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit or the lowest temperature in the oven. Place the basil leaves on a single layer on a baking sheet, and bake the basil leaves for two to four hours, until the leaves are dry and crumbly. Crumble the dry basil leaves into a jar. When substituting for fresh basil, ise a teaspoon of dry basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil.

You can freeze basil, which will then keep for approximately three months. Here are two methods for freezing basil:

1. 1. Basil leaves: Blanch fresh basil leaves in boiling water for three to five seconds. After blanching, immediately shock the basil by placing it in a bowl of ice water. Dry the leaves, then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Add the frozen basil to a soup or stew for flavor.
2. 2. Basil cubes: Mince the basil leaves in a food processor until it forms a puree. Add olive oil until the basil forms a pesto-like paste, and freeze the paste in ice cube trays. Add the frozen basil cubes to a hot pan to create a sauce. You can also make pesto by adding garlic and salt to the minced basil and olive oil mixture before freezing.

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