Because of its distinctive flavor and perfume, basil is a common herb in many different types of food. Basil can be difficult to keep fresh for an extended period of time. The herb may wilt, turn brown, and lose its flavor if it is not stored properly. Basil can be preserved in a number of methods to lengthen its shelf life. We’ll look at some advice for keeping basil delicious and fresh in this article.
The first piece of advice for keeping basil is to keep it dry. Basil leaves are delicate and easily wilt when they come into contact with water. The herb must be kept in a dry atmosphere as a result. The basil should be placed in a plastic bag after being wrapped in a paper towel for the best results. Before sealing the bag, take sure to get rid of as much air as you can. As a result, the basil will stay fresh for up to a week and help prevent moisture from building up within.
Basil can also be preserved by being kept in a glass of water, much like fresh flowers. For basil plants that still have their roots connected, this technique works wonderfully. Make sure the leaves are not submerged as you trim the stems and put them in a glass of water. Keep the glass somewhere cool and dark, preferably in the fridge. To keep the basil fresh, change the water every other day, and regularly cut the stems.
Basil can be frozen if you have extra and wish to keep it for a long time. However, basil is one of the herbs that doesn’t freeze well. Basil that has been frozen may lose flavor and become brown when thawed. So, before freezing the basil, it must first be blanched. Basil leaves are blanched by briefly submerging them in boiling water before quickly removing them to ice-cold water. The flavor and color of the herb are kept after this treatment. The basil leaves should be blanched, dried, and put in a freezer-safe bag or container. Basil can be frozen for up to six months.
In conclusion, basil must be kept dry and away from moisture when being stored. Basil can be stored successfully in a glass of water or by wrapping it in a paper towel and putting it in a plastic bag. Basil can be frozen, but blanching it first can help it keep its flavor and color. You can keep your basil fresh and tasty for a long time by using these tips and tactics.