With its vibrant green leaves and heady aroma, basil is the main ingredient in many recipes, giving them a strong, yet refreshing flavor. You’re in luck if you’ve ever wished to always have this delectable treat close at hand! Basil may be preserved, making it possible to enjoy its fresh flavor throughout the year in a surprisingly easy way. Here’s how to grow an unending supply of basil at home so you never have to run out of this popular herb.

1. Basil Leaves Freeze

Freezing basil is one of the best ways to maintain its freshness. By using this technique, the flavor is preserved and the leaves are always ready to use.

Begin by blanching the basil leaves in a small amount of boiling water for a few seconds, and then quickly move them to an ice water bath. This procedure aids in maintaining the vivid green hue.

Dry Completely: Use a salad spinner or paper towel to pat the leaves dry completely of any remaining moisture.

Place the leaves flat on a baking sheet and place in the freezer to solidify. After they’re frozen, move them to a freezer bag or airtight container. This keeps the leaves from bunching together so you may remove only what you require.

2. Preparing Oil of Basil

Basil oil is not only a great way to keep the flavor of the herb intact, but it also tastes great when added to marinades, sauces, or foods to give a little extra flavor.

Blend Basil and Oil: In a blender, add fresh basil leaves and olive oil. Process till smooth.

Strain (Optional): Pour the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh screen for a clearer oil. If you want a more rustic look, leave the basil bits in.

Store: Transfer the oil into a sealed container and place it in the fridge. For a longer shelf life, freeze it in an ice cube tray or use it within a few weeks.

3. Basil Drying

A traditional way of concentrating the flavors of basil, drying it makes it ideal for flavoring food.

Air Dry: Gather basil stems and suspend them inverted in a warm, dry location away from the sun. Crumble the leaves and place them in an airtight container after they are totally dry.

To dry basil leaves, place them on a baking sheet and bake at a low temperature (no more than 200°F) for two to four hours.

By using these techniques, you may savor the flavor of fresh basil at any time of year, adding excitement to every meal. Basil can be simply preserved so that you always have access to the bright flavors and smells of this adaptable herb, whether it is dried, frozen, or infused into oil. So feel free to incorporate some garden elements into your kitchen and experience the endless joy that comes with