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February 8, 2018
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Let’s Talk About: Basil

Let’s Talk About: Basil https://windermeregardencentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Basil-Photo.png 374 243 windermeregardencentre6721 windermeregardencentre6721 https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9ecd98c7d75cea508adbe0136fa80677?s=96&d=mm&r=g February 8, 2018 November 27, 2019

Basil

A member of the mint family, basil is one of the earliest known herbs and has been cultivated for over 5000 years. With over 60 different varieties, it is one of the most used herbs in cooking around the world. Basil originated in India and Thailand where it was also used medicinally as well as for cooking.

Throughout history Basil was thought to almost have magical powers and was used in many different ways by many different cultures. Here a few we thought were interesting.

• Early romans thought it caused insanity
• European lovers exchanged sprigs of basil as a symbol of faithfulness it was also placed in hands of the dead to ensure a safe journey
• Jewish folklore suggest it adds strength while fasting
• It was used for an antidote for snake bites
• In Medieval Times some believed that basil was for good and helped to cheer the spirit and clearing of the brain where as others thought basil was poisonous
• Ancient Egyptians used basil in mummies during the embalming process
• Ancient Greeks believed that to have a successful basil crop you had to shout and swear at the seeds while planting

Basil is full of iron, vitamin K and beta carotene and is known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antioxidant agents. It has been used medicinally as a remedy for common health issues. Here are few of the many maladies it is said to help.

• the common cold – anxiety and depression
• gas, nausea and indigestion – memory loss
• headaches – managing arthritis
• improved brain function and memory – fights bacterial infections

When planted it does best in a well-drained, full sun spot, it is sensitive to cold so be sure to plant after the risk of frost is over, it likes rich moist soil but will grow practically anywhere. It is said to enhance the growth of tomatoes and peppers and protect them from insects.

Don’t forget to shout and swear at your seeds when you are planting them

Recipes using Basil

Basil Pesto

It can be used in Italian recipes, tomato sauces, on pizza, chicken or fish. It also freezes well.

Ingredients

– 2 cups of packed fresh basil – 2/3 cup olive oil
– 1 clove of garlic – dash of salt
– ¼ cup pine nuts – ½ cup parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice

Directions

Put all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth, place into a dish and enjoy!

This recipe is from a recipe book called “Barefoot in the Kitchen” that was put together by the Windermere Women’s Institute and can be purchased at both our locations for $20.00

Here are some links to a few more yummy recipes we have found using Basil. We would like to know what your favorite recipes using fresh herbs are, find us on Facebook and share your recipes with us.