How do you use fresh basil in cooking?

Basil is a lovey fragrant herb used in many different recipes.

But it’s very important to realise that there are many different types of basil, each will add a different flavour to your recipes. More details in our basil types compared article

Whether you are using Sweet or Genovese variety, or any of the other varieties, preparation of all the different varieties will be similar:

Step 1 – Select which basil to use

Our guide on which basil to grow for cooking provides more detailed info, but below is a quick comparision:

Basil Type	Flavour	Best For	Use Fresh or Cooked
Genovese	Sweet, clove‑like	Italian, tomato dishes	Fresh & cooked
Thai	Anise, liquorice	Thai, Vietnamese	Best cooked
Lemon	Citrus	Fish, salads, desserts	Fresh
Cinnamon	Warm, spicy	Mexican, drinks	Fresh
Holy (Tulasi)	Peppery	Thai stir‑fries	Cooked
Red Rubin	Strong basil	Tomato dishes, salads and cocktails	Fresh & cooked
Lettuce Leaf	Subtle flavour	Sandwiches, pesto and salads	Fresh
Minette	Slightly spicy	Pizza, pasta and salads	Fresh & cooked

Step 2 – Prepare the basil

If growing your own then cut a twig from the plant
Wash the basil under cold water
Then remove the leaves – easiest option is to start at the top and gently slide your finger down, removing the leaves.
Then cut the leaves into small bits.

Step 3 – How to use fresh basil in cooking

Fresh basil will lose it’s flavour if cooked too long.

There are 3 ways to use it in recipes:

Either simply use it fresh
Add it at the end of the recipe – for max flavour.
Or make fresh basil ice cubes, which you can store in a freezer for 6 to 12 months. (full recipe & guide)