Basil Leaf c/s

Botanical Name - Ocimum basilicum Other Names - Common Basil, Sweet Basil Origin - Egypt Flavor Profile - Spicy and sweet, with a hint of anise. Combines well with most vegetables, especially potatoes, tomatoes and fennel.  Culinary Usages - Commonly used to season soups, stews, braised meats, vegetable dishes, pasta and sauces.  Cosmetic Usages - Basil is used in various hair and skin products, including soaps, shampoos and vinegar rinses. Decorative Usages - Basil may be added to potpourri mixes. In the ancient world, basil was reserved for royalty, as evidenced by its common name that was taken from the Greek basileus that means "people's leader." The French refer to the herb as herbe royale and in Germany it is known as Königskraut, both of which translate to "herb of the king". In addition to Italian foods, basil is widely used in Asian cuisine. In Thai cooking, for example, the herb is added vegetable stir-fries. Basil’s flavor profile is particularly suited to dishes that contai