Introduction:
Basil is a popular herb used in many dishes, from pasta sauces to salads. It has a strong, sweet aroma and flavor that can enhance the taste of any dish. However, fresh basil can quickly wilt and spoil, making it challenging to keep on hand for more extended periods. That’s where preserving basil comes in.
Preserving basil is an excellent way to ensure you always have fresh basil on hand, regardless of the season. In this post, we will cover three main methods for preserving basil: freezing, drying, and making pesto. These methods are easy to do at home and require minimal effort. By following these methods, you can preserve your basil’s freshness and aroma for an extended period.
Basil is a versatile herb that can add a fragrant and flavorful punch to any dish. However, fresh basil has a short shelf life and can quickly wilt and lose its potency. Preserving basil is a great way to extend its lifespan and keep it fresh for longer. In this article, we will discuss the different methods you can use to preserve basil and keep it flavorful.
Table of Contents
- Why Preserve Basil?
- When to Harvest Basil
- How to Harvest Basil
- How to Preserve Basil: Drying Method
- How to Preserve Basil: Freezing Method
- How to Preserve Basil: Oil Method
- How to Preserve Basil: Pesto Method
- Storing Basil in the Fridge
- Storing Basil in the Freezer
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Why Preserve Basil?
Fresh basil has a limited lifespan and can quickly wilt and lose its flavor if not used immediately. Preserving basil allows you to enjoy its flavor and fragrance all year round, even after the growing season has ended. Preserved basil can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, sauces, and marinades.
When to Harvest Basil
The best time to harvest basil is in the morning when the plant has had a chance to dry out from the morning dew but hasn’t been exposed to the midday sun. It’s best to harvest basil before it begins to flower, as the leaves will be more flavorful and less bitter.
How to Harvest Basil
To harvest basil, use a clean and sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. Cut the stem just above a set of leaves, leaving at least two sets of leaves on the plant so that it can continue to grow. Rinse the basil in cool water to remove any dirt or debris, and then dry it thoroughly with a clean towel.
Method #1: Basil Bouquet
One of the simplest ways to preserve basil is to keep it in a vase like flowers. A basil bouquet not only looks beautiful but also keeps the basil fresh for up to a week. Here’s how to make a basil bouquet:
Step 1: Harvest the Basil
Harvest the basil in the morning when the leaves are at their freshest. Cut the stems just above a pair of leaves to encourage bushier growth. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at a time to prevent stress and damage.
Step 2: Remove the Lower Leaves
Remove the lower leaves from the stems, leaving only the top 2-3 sets of leaves. The lower leaves tend to wilt faster and can cause the water to become cloudy.
Step 3: Place in a Vase
Fill a vase with cool water and place the basil stems in it, making sure that the bottom of the stems is submerged in water. Place the vase in a cool, shaded spot away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Step 4: Change the Water
Change the water every day or every other day to keep it fresh. Trim the stems every time you change the water to create a fresh surface for water absorption.
Step 5: Use as Needed
To use the basil, simply pluck the leaves from the stems and rinse them under cold water. Pat dry with a paper towel and add to your favorite recipe.
How to Preserve Basil: Drying Method
Drying basil is one of the easiest and most traditional methods of preserving this herb. To dry basil, tie a bundle of stems together with string or twine and hang it upside down in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area. Alternatively, you can dry the leaves individually by spreading them out on a clean and dry surface. Once the leaves are dry and brittle, remove them from the stems and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Step 1: Harvest the Basil
Harvest the basil as described in method #1.
Step 2: Wash and Dry the Basil
Wash the basil leaves under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. Make sure that the leaves are completely dry to prevent mold and rot.
Step 3: Air Dry the Basil
Tie the basil stems together with twine or string and hang them upside down in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight. Leave the basil to dry for 1-2 weeks, or until the leaves are crispy and crumble easily.
Step 4: Remove the Leaves
Remove the dried leaves from the stems and crush them into smaller pieces. Store the dried basil in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place.
How to Preserve Basil: Freezing Method
Freezing basil is a simple and effective way to preserve its flavor and fragrance. To freeze basil, wash and dry the leaves thoroughly and remove any stems. Chop the leaves finely or blend them with a small amount of olive oil to create a puree. Place the puree in an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe container or bag and store in the freezer for up to six months.
Step 1: Harvest the Basil
Harvest the basil as described in method #1.
Step 2: Wash and Dry the Basil
Wash the basil leaves under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. Make sure that the leaves are completely dry to prevent freezer burn.
Step 3: Blanch the Basil
Blanch the basil leaves in boiling water for 2-3 seconds and then transfer them to a bowl of ice water. Blanching helps to preserve the color and flavor of the basil.
Step 4: Dry and Freeze
Dry the blanched basil leaves with a paper towel and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze the basil leaves for 1-2 hours or until they are frozen solid.
Step 5: Store in a Bag
Transfer the frozen basil leaves to a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.
How to Preserve Basil: Oil Method
Preserving basil in oil is a great way to add its flavor to dishes without having to thaw it first. To preserve basil in oil, wash and dry the leaves thoroughly and remove any stems. Place the leaves in a food processor or blender with enough oil to cover them. Blend until smooth, and then transfer the mixture to a clean and sterilized jar. Cover the mixture with a layer of oil to prevent air from reaching the basil, and store it in the fridge for up to a month.
Step 1: Harvest the Basil
Harvest the basil as described in method #1.
Step 2: Wash and Dry the Basil
Wash the basil leaves under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. Make sure that the leaves are completely dry to prevent mold and rot.
Step 3: Blend with Oil
Place the basil leaves in a food processor and add enough olive oil to cover them. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Store in a Jar
Transfer the basil and oil mixture to a clean glass jar and cover it tightly with a lid. Store the jar in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Step 5: Use as Needed
To use the basil, simply scoop out the desired amount of the oil and basil mixture and add it to your recipe. The oil can be used as a marinade, dressing, or dipping sauce.
How to Preserve Basil: Pesto Method
Pesto is a classic Italian sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. To make pesto, combine all the ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Transfer the pesto to a clean and sterilized jar, and cover it with a layer of oil to prevent air from reaching the basil. Store the pesto in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to six months.
Making Pesto:
If you have an abundance of fresh basil on hand, making pesto is a great way to use it up while preserving it at the same time. Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in many dishes, from pasta sauces to sandwiches. Here are the steps to make pesto at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of fresh basil leaves
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1/4 cup of pine nuts
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Wash and dry the basil leaves thoroughly.
- Peel the garlic cloves and add them to a food processor or blender.
- Add the pine nuts and pulse until they are finely chopped.
- Add the basil leaves to the food processor and pulse until they are roughly chopped.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and pulse until everything is well combined.
- With the food processor or blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
To store the pesto, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze pesto in ice cube trays and store the cubes in a freezer bag for up to six months.
Tips for using pesto:
- Toss it with cooked pasta for a quick and easy meal.
- Use it as a sandwich spread or dip for vegetables.
- Use it as a marinade for meats or vegetables before grilling.
- Mix it with mayonnaise or yogurt for a creamy dipping sauce.
Storing Basil in the Fridge
If you have fresh basil that you want to use within a few days, you can store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. To store basil in the fridge, wrap the leaves loosely in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag or container with a lid. Store the container in the fridge, and replace the damp paper towel every two days to keep the basil fresh.
Storing Basil in the Freezer
If you have more basil than you can use within a few days, you can store it in the freezer for later use. To store basil in the freezer, wash and dry the leaves thoroughly and remove any stems. Place the leaves in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze until solid. Frozen basil can be used in recipes without thawing, but it will have a softer texture than fresh basil.
Conclusion
Preserving basil is a great way to extend its lifespan and keep it fresh for longer. Whether you choose to dry it, freeze it, preserve it in oil, or make pesto, there are many methods to choose from. With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy the flavor and fragrance of fresh basil all year round.
FAQs
- How long does dried basil last? Dried basil can last up to a year if stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place.
- Can you freeze basil without blanching it first? Yes, you can freeze basil without blanching it first. Blanching is not necessary for preserving basil in the freezer.
- Can you preserve basil in vinegar? Yes, you can preserve basil in vinegar, but the flavor and texture may change. It’s best to use a high-quality vinegar and store the basil in the fridge.
- How do you know if basil has gone bad? Basil that has gone bad will have a dark color, slimy texture, and a foul odor. Discard any basil that shows signs of spoilage.
- Can you use frozen basil in pesto? Yes, you can use frozen basil in pesto. Allow the basil to thaw slightly before blending it with the other ingredients.
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