Page Contents
Basil is a popular herb used in many different types of cuisine, from Italian to Thai. However, there are many different varieties of basil, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Two of the most commonly confused varieties are Thai basil and holy basil. While both are popular in Asian cuisine, they are actually quite different in appearance, flavour and use. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Thai basil and holy basil to help you understand the differences between them and how to use them in your cooking.
What is Thai basil?
Thai basil, also known as sweet basil, is a popular herb in South East Asian cuisine. It has a strong, sweet and slightly spicy flavour, similar to traditional Mediterranean basil, but with a distinct liquorice or anise-like aroma.
Thai basil has dark green leaves that are narrow and pointed with a slightly serrated edge. The leaves are often used fresh in salads, soups, curries and stir-fries, and can also be used to make Thai basil pesto or infused in oil. The herb is also a popular garnish for many dishes, often added at the last minute to preserve its flavour and texture.
Thai basil is easy to grow and can be grown in the garden or in a pot on a windowsill. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and should be pinched back regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from going to seed.
What is Holy Basil?
Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is a sacred herb in Hinduism and is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has a pungent, peppery and slightly bitter flavour with a hint of clove or mint. Holy basil has a strong aroma and is often used in teas, tonics and tinctures to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Holy basil has green or purple leaves that are wider and flatter than Thai basil. The leaves are slightly fuzzy and have a serrated edge. Holy basil is widely used in Indian and Thai cuisine for its unique flavour and aroma. It is commonly used in curries, soups and stir-fries, and can also be used to make teas and other beverages.
Holy basil is also believed to have many health benefits. It is said to help improve digestion, reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Some studies have also suggested that holy basil may have anti-cancer properties.
Appearance differences
One of the easiest ways to tell Thai basil from holy basil is by its appearance. Although both varieties belong to the basil family, they have distinct differences in their leaves and general growth pattern.
Thai basil has narrow leaves that are pointed and slightly serrated along the edges. The leaves are dark green in colour and have a glossy sheen. Thai basil plants tend to grow upright and can reach a height of up to 2 feet. The plant produces small clusters of white or pink flowers that bloom in late summer.
Holy basil, on the other hand, has broader leaves that are slightly fuzzy and have a serrated edge. The leaves are green or purple in colour and have a more rounded shape than Thai basil. Holy basil plants tend to be smaller and bushier than Thai basil, growing to a height of about 1 foot. The plant produces small clusters of purple or pink flowers that bloom in late summer.
Flavour differences
Another way of distinguishing between Thai basil and holy basil is by flavour. While both herbs have a distinct flavour, they have different flavour profiles that make them more suitable for certain dishes.
Thai basil has a sweet, slightly spicy flavour with a hint of liquorice or aniseed. It has a more delicate flavour than traditional Mediterranean basil and is often used in Southeast Asian cuisine to add a unique dimension to dishes. Thai basil can be used fresh or cooked and is often added at the end of the cooking process to preserve its flavour and texture.
Holy basil, on the other hand, has a more pungent, peppery flavour with a hint of clove or mint. It has a stronger flavour than Thai basil and is often used in Indian and Thai cuisine to add a bold flavour to curries, soups and stir-fries. Often used fresh or dried, holy basil can be brewed into teas or tinctures to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Culinary uses of Thai basil and holy basil
Thai basil and holy basil are both popular herbs in Asian cuisine and are used in a variety of dishes to add flavour and aroma. Here are some common culinary uses for Thai basil and holy basil:
Thai basil:
- Used as a flavouring in soups and curries
- Added to stir-fries and pasta dishes for a sweet and slightly spicy flavour
- Used as a garnish for salads, spring rolls and other dishes
- Infused in oil for use in marinades, dressings and sauces
- Used to make Thai basil pesto
Holy basil:
- Used as a flavouring in soups and curries
- Added to stir-fries and pasta dishes for a sweet and slightly spicy flavour
- Used as a garnish for salads, spring rolls and other dishes
- Infused in oil for use in marinades, dressings and sauces
- Used to make Thai basil pesto
Both Thai basil and holy basil can be used fresh or dried, depending on the dish and desired flavour profile. Fresh herbs are often added at the end of the cooking process to preserve their flavour and texture, while dried herbs are often used in teas, tonics and other medicinal applications.
Medicinal properties of holy basil
Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal properties. It is believed to have a wide range of health benefits, including
- Reduces stress and anxiety: Holy Basil is considered an adaptogenic herb, which means it helps the body adapt to stress and reduce anxiety.
- Boost the immune system: Holy basil contains antioxidants and other compounds that can help boost the immune system and protect against infection.
- Improve digestion: Holy basil is believed to help improve digestion and relieve symptoms of indigestion, bloating and gas.
- Reduce inflammation: Holy basil contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and arthritis.
- Balancing blood sugar: Holy basil is thought to help regulate blood sugar levels and may be beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Improving respiratory function: Holy basil is often used to relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and colds.
Holy basil can be consumed as a tea, tincture or supplement to promote general health and well-being. It can also be used in cooking to add flavour and nutritional benefits to dishes. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using holy basil as a medicinal herb, as it may interact with certain medications or cause side effects in some people.
Conclusion
In conclusion, although Thai basil and holy basil are both members of the basil family, they have distinct differences in appearance, flavour and use. Thai basil has a sweet and slightly spicy flavour with a hint of liquorice and is often used in Southeast Asian cuisine to add a unique flavour to dishes. Holy basil has a pungent and peppery flavour with a hint of clove or mint and is often used in Indian and Thai cuisine and in Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal properties.
Both herbs are easy to grow and can be used fresh or dried in a variety of dishes to add flavour and nutritional benefits. Whether you’re a fan of Thai or Indian cuisine, or interested in natural remedies for health and wellness, Thai basil and holy basil are two versatile herbs worth adding to your culinary and medicinal repertoire. By understanding the differences between these two herbs, you can choose the right one for your needs and create dishes that are both delicious and nutritious.
FAQs
What is the flavor profile of Thai basil?
Thai basil has a sweet, slightly spicy flavor with a hint of licorice or anise.
What is the flavor profile of holy basil?
Holy basil has a pungent, peppery flavor with a hint of clove or mint.
Can Thai basil and holy basil be used interchangeably in recipes?
No, Thai basil and holy basil have different flavor profiles and are better suited for certain types of dishes. Thai basil is often used in Southeast Asian cuisine, while holy basil is used in Indian and Thai cuisine and in Ayurvedic medicine.
What are the medicinal properties of holy basil?
Holy basil is believed to have a wide range of health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, boosting the immune system, improving digestion, and lowering inflammation. It is often used as a tea or supplement to promote overall health and well-being.
Can holy basil be used in cooking?
Yes, holy basil can be used in cooking to add flavor and nutritional benefits to dishes. It is often added to curries, soups, and stir-fries for its bold and peppery flavor.