Preserving Basil

There is no need to waste a huge basil plant when it’s at its prime, and there is no need to go without basil in the cooler months. Here are some new tips to harvest and preserve your basil!

In the freezer – Take a leaf of basil and fold it so it fits inside an ice cube tray cell, fill all the cells with leaves then fill with water. Place the tray in the freezer then use as many as you need when you are cooking.

Preserving in Oil – Chop 25 basil leaves and put into a sterile bottle, fill with your favorite oil, shake and put it in the fridge.
To use this blend, simply add some oil to your favorite dish. Take into account the oil you have already added to the dish as to not over oil it.

Drying Basil – When the season is nearing its end, cut the basil off at the base and take it inside. Tie all of the bunches together and hang upside down in a dry well ventilated room. After they have dried you can chop them and store it all in an air tight jar. When using dried basil, you will need to use more than if you were using fresh.

By using these simple methods, you can start using your home grown basil in your cooking all year round!

Tags: basil, preserving