Did you know?

Thai Basil is a versatile herb, which unlike other basil types, stands up well in high heat or extended cooking temperatures. Native to South East Asia, Thai Basil is very distinct thanks to its gorgeous, narrow green leaves on purple stems with a pink-purple flowers.

Thai Basil is great for…

Thai green and red curries, Pad Thai, other curries, stews, stir fries, salads and even iced tea. Used as a condiment, a plate of raw Thai basil leaves is often served as an accompaniment to many Vietnamese dishes, so that each person can season to taste.

Pairs well with…

• Chicken
• Pork
• Curry

Kitchen tips

Pinch the leaves and use them whole as a raw condiment or add whole leaves to your cooking.

Like other types of basil, pick your Thai Basil leaves just before watering to get the most intense flavour, when the stems are starting to droop. You’ll see that all the flavour is concentrated in the fragrant leaves.

Take care of your Thai Basil

Let your Thai Basil tell you when it needs watering. It should start to wilt. Over watering will dilute its flavour, while stressing it will increase the production of essential oils, improving its flavour.

To stop your Thai Basil from getting too leggy, pinch back the stems just above new side shoots. Do not refrigerate as the chill will quickly turn the leaves black.

Leave your potted Thai Basil in your kitchen bench away from draughts and preferably out of direct sunlight.

For your pre-cut Thai Basil, leave it in the salad drawer of your refrigerator.

Nutritional facts

Thai Basil is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, iron and potassium.

Health benefits

Thai Basil contains many vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and E, fiber, and antioxidants.

Vitamin A is known to have antioxidant properties and is essential for vision. It also required for maintaining healthy mucosa and skin. Consumption of natural foods rich in vitamin A has been found to help the human body protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.

Thai Basil herb contains a good amount of minerals like potassium, manganese, copper, and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids, which helps control heart rate and blood pressure.