Herbs have the ability to turn a simple dish into a flavorful masterpiece. Basil is a favorite herb amongst many chefs, as its distinct flavor can add a hint of sweetness to any recipe. But if you’re looking to keep basil for an extended period of time, you need to know how to preserve it.
How to Preserve Basil?
To preserve basil, start by washing the leaves and allowing them to dry. Once the leaves are dry, chop them into small pieces. Place the chopped basil in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Basil can also be frozen in an airtight container, or it can be dried in a dehydrator or oven. To dry in an oven, spread the leaves on a baking sheet and bake at 140 degrees Fahrenheit for 1-2 hours. Once fully dried, store the dried basil in a sealed container in a cool, dry place.
In this article, we’ll discuss the various ways you can preserve your basil and keep it tasting fresh for days, weeks, and even months.
Read Also: How to Make Basil Oil?
How to Preserve Basil with Different Methods?
Here are the different methods to preserve basil:
1. Freezing
Freezing is the most common and easy way to preserve basil. Freezing basil leaves can help lock in flavor and keep them fresh for up to six months. To freeze basil, start by washing and drying the leaves.
Then, place the leaves in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for two hours. Once they are frozen, transfer the leaves to an airtight container and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to use them, just take out the leaves and let them thaw.
2. Drying
If you don’t have access to a freezer, you can still preserve basil by drying it. Drying is a great way to preserve basil because it does not require a lot of effort or equipment. To dry basil, start by washing and drying the leaves.
Then, spread them out on a baking sheet and place them in a warm, dry place. Let the leaves sit for a few days until they are completely dry. Once they are dry, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
3. Preserving in Oil
Preserving basil in oil is another great way to keep it fresh for a long time. This method not only preserves the basil but also infuses it with flavor. To preserve basil in oil, start by washing and drying the leaves.
Then, place the leaves in a jar and cover them with your favorite oil. Let the basil infuse the oil for a few days before storing the jar in the refrigerator.
4. Making Pesto
Making pesto is a great way to preserve basil and turn it into a delicious sauce that can be used to enhance many dishes. To make pesto, start by blending basil leaves, olive oil, garlic, nuts, and cheese in a food processor.
Once the ingredients are mixed together, add salt and pepper to taste. Then, store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
5. Pickling
Pickling is another great way to preserve basil. To pickle basil, start by washing and drying the leaves. Then, place the leaves in a jar and cover them with a mixture of vinegar and sugar. Let the basil sit in the mixture for a few days before storing the jar in the refrigerator.
Why Preserve Basil?
Basil is an herb that has many benefits and is used in many different dishes. Preserving basil is important for many reasons, one of which is that it allows people to enjoy the herb’s fresh flavor and aroma throughout the year.
For example, if basil is grown in a garden during the summer months, it can be preserved in several different ways to enjoy its flavor and aroma throughout the year.
Basil can be dried and stored in an airtight container, it can be frozen in ice cube trays, or it can be made into a pesto and stored in the refrigerator. Preserving basil allows people to enjoy its flavor and aroma year-round and add it to a variety of dishes.
Conclusion
Preserving basil is a great way to ensure that you always have fresh basil on hand. There are many different methods to preserve basil, such as freezing, drying, preserving in oil, making pesto, and pickling. With these methods, you can enjoy the flavor of basil all year round.
I am an accomplished tech writer with a passion for simplifying complex technology concepts. With a background in Tech, James has dedicated their career to making the intricacies of the digital world accessible to a broad audience.
