Basil Bliss - The King of Herbs 6 varieties to try

Learn more about the fascinating history, varieties, and culinary uses of basil in our blog post. Get inspired to grow your own basil garden and explore more basil-based recipes.

Basil, with its diverse range of varieties, has long been cherished in kitchens and gardens around the globe. From the classic sweet basil to the exotic Thai basil, this herb has the power to elevate any dish with its distinctive essence.

Let’s take a look at six extraordinary basil varieties and provide you with valuable insights on how to cultivate them in your own garden.

Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Let's begin our basil adventure with the most well-known variety, Sweet Basil. Its lush, green leaves and delightful aroma make it a staple in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. Sweet Basil thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers a warm climate but can be grown as an annual in colder regions. This versatile herb adds a fresh and aromatic touch to salads, pesto, pasta dishes, and more. Trim it often for the best harvest and busier plants.

Lemon Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Citriodorum')

If you're looking to infuse your dishes with a zesty and refreshing citrus note, Lemon Basil is the perfect choice. With its bright green leaves and invigorating aroma, this variety is a delightful addition to salads, fish dishes, and desserts. Lemon Basil prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Its compact growth habit makes it suitable for containers or garden beds. It also attracts pollinators, adding beauty to your outdoor space.

Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, holds a sacred place in Ayurvedic medicine and spiritual practices. With its aromatic leaves and therapeutic properties, this variety offers a unique experience. Holy Basil thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers a warm and tropical climate but can be grown as an annual in cooler regions. Apart from its culinary uses, Holy Basil is often brewed into herbal teas known for their calming and rejuvenating effects.

Purple Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Purpurascens')

For a touch of visual delight in your herb garden, Red Ruben Purple Basil is a showstopper. With its deep purple leaves and intense aroma, this variety adds a splash of color and flavor to your culinary creations. Purple Basil thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is often used as a decorative element in salads, desserts, and as a garnish. Its striking appearance also makes it an attractive addition to flower arrangements and as a landscape plant. My favorite use is to make herbal vinegar.

Cinnamon Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Cinnamon')

Imagine the warm and comforting aroma of cinnamon combined with the freshness of basil—that's Cinnamon Basil for you. With its rich scent and slightly spicy taste, this variety adds an intriguing twist to your cooking. Cinnamon Basil thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Its compact growth habit makes it suitable for containers or garden borders. Use the leaves in teas, desserts, fruit salads, and as a flavorful seasoning.

Thai Basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora)

Thai Basil, with its distinct licorice and mint-like flavor, brings an exotic twist to your culinary creations. This variety is a key ingredient in Thai, Vietnamese, and other Southeast Asian cuisines. Thai Basil thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It appreciates a warm and humid environment. With its purple stems and fragrant leaves, Thai Basil adds a touch of elegance to stir-fries, curries, and noodle dishes.

Cultivation Tips:

Location and Sunlight: Basil loves full sun, so choose a spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.

Soil: Basil prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH level (around 6.0 to 7.0). Ensure good drainage by adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to the soil.

Watering: Basil prefers consistent moisture but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Water the plants deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Pruning: Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents the plants from becoming leggy. Pinch off the top leaves regularly to encourage lateral branching.

Harvesting: Begin harvesting basil leaves when the plants have reached a height of about 6 inches. Harvest by pinching off individual leaves or cutting entire stems just above a leaf node. Regular harvesting promotes continued growth and enhances the flavor of the remaining leaves.

Remember, basil thrives in full sun, well-drained soil, and regular pruning. With a little care and attention, you can cultivate these remarkable herbs in your own garden, allowing you to infuse your dishes with the vibrant essence of various cuisines.

Recipes

So, whether you're preparing a classic Caprese salad, a fragrant Thai curry, or a refreshing lemon-infused beverage, let the enchanting world of basil be your guide, and savor the delightful results!

Caprese Salad

Herb Infused Lemon Beer-tail

Thai Basil Curry

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, thinly sliced
• 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional for non-vegetarian version)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
• 1 cup tofu or your choice of protein (chicken, shrimp, or vegetables)
• Salt, to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving
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• Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Add the bell peppers, carrot, and zucchini to the pan and stir-fry for a few minutes until they begin to soften. In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and brown sugar until well combined. Pour the curry mixture into the pan with the vegetables. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly with the curry sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
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• Add the tofu or your choice of protein to the pan and cook until it is heated through. Stir in the Thai basil leaves and cook for another minute until the basil wilts and releases its aroma. Taste the curry and season with salt if needed. Remove from heat and serve the Thai Basil Curry over cooked rice.
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• Note: Feel free to adjust the ingredients and spice levels according to your taste preferences. You can also add other vegetables or proteins of your choice to make it even more flavorful.