The bush basil has an intense taste. But that alone doesn't make it a versatile herb. It is its typical aromatic note that can work alone in the kitchen, but also harmonizes with many other aromas. In addition, its ingredients make other applications possible.
What can you use bush basil for?
Shrub basil has a variety of uses: it refines Mediterranean dishes, its flowers can be pickled in vinegar or used as decoration, as an aromatic tea it has a soothing effect on various symptoms of illness, in the garden it serves as a pest deterrent and as a scent dispenser in the house.
Basil for Mediterranean enjoyment
Tomato with mozzarella and basil, who doesn't know this appetizer? Hot spaghetti, on the other hand, looks forward to a green basil pesto. Italian cuisine is unthinkable without this herb! We would have already mentioned the main area of application for shrub basil.
Use the herb if the recipe calls for it. You are also welcome to use it if you find its aroma suitable.
Tip
Tree basil tastes more intense than commercially available herb pots. There is therefore a risk of over-seasoning the dish. Use a small amount first. If necessary, you can always add more seasoning.
Use of flowers
Basil flowers are also edible. You can cut off a few freshly bloomed flowers and use them to make a spicy vinegar. You can also decorate food with the colorful flowers and then eat them. However, their taste is more bitter than that of the leaves.
A tea with healing powers
Basil tea is not yet on everyone's lips, but you can probably imagine how aromatic it tastes. In addition, it has a soothing effect on a number of disease symptoms. Among other things:
- Migraines
- Sore throat
- Vertigo
- Sleep disorders
- Skin diseases
- rain pain
- Menopausal symptoms
- Joint pain
Shrub basil as a pest repellent
Tree basil in the garden acts as a pest deterrent with its intense scent. Place the plant near your seat. Flies and mosquitoes will give it a wide berth.
Basil as a scent dispenser
Enrich fresh bouquets with a few shoots of this herb. In summer they will even have colored flowers. Dried basil can also be placed in the house as a scent dispenser.
Harvests from January to December
The bush basil is a perennial plant if it is overwintered indoors. Its use is therefore possible 365 days of the year.
Cut off entire shoots, each 2-3 mm above a pair of leaves. The remaining piece can then sprout again. It is less suitable if you only pluck individual leaves again and again. The bare stems die.
Tip
You can use bush basil fresh, but also dry or freeze. The two preservation methods are particularly useful if you have to cut off more of the bush than you can use in a short time.
