Pesto sauce, basil tea, Thai soups – basil is used in many culinary uses, but we are not really sure whether we should use holy basil from the plant in our homes or the other kind of basil, known as sweet basil. I love the taste of basil in my food, but when I cook, I often get confused about which basil to choose. Does this happen to you too? Let’s first get this fact clear – basil and holy basil are similar, but not the same! While both of these are versatile herbs, they have unique flavors and culinary uses. Understanding their differences can help you make informed choices and will work towards better flavor in your food.
Also read: 9 Incredible Benefits of Basil Leaves You Didn’t Know
Tulsi vs. Holy Basil – Botanical Differences
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) and holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) belong to the same genus but are different species. The common type of basil comes in different varieties that can range from bright green leaves to purple leaves. They are sweet and peppery in taste. Holy basil, also known as tulsi, comes with smaller leaves that are green with purple veins and have a stronger, more pungent aroma and flavor.
Basil vs. Holy Basil – Different Culinary Uses
Uses of basil in cooking:
- Italian cuisine: Basil is a staple herb used in Italian cuisine to make pesto, marinara sauce, and caprese salads. Its bright, fresh flavor pairs perfectly with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil.
- Mediterranean cuisine: The origin of basil reflects its use in Mediterranean cuisine and the flavour it gives to Greek salads and grilled vegetables in particular. Some of the huge Thai dishes that use basil include Pad Thai, green curry, etc. Basil gives these delicious dishes a fragrant and herbaceous flavour.
Uses of Holy Basil in Cooking:
- Indian cuisine: Basil is considered a sacred herb in Hinduism and is widely used in Indian cuisine in curries, soups, and fried dishes due to its distinctive spicy and slightly bitter flavor.
- Thai cuisine: It is also used in Thai cuisine, primarily in green curry and pad ka prao (fried basil).
- Ayurvedic Medicine: Tulsi is a very important plant in Ayurveda, highly acclaimed for its medicinal properties and used in the treatment of many diseases.
Read this also: 7 Delicious Recipes to Include Tulsi in Your Daily Diet
Basil is used in many culinary recipes.
Photo Credit: iStock
Basil vs. Holy Basil – Flavor Profile
Basil has a sweet taste and a tangy and slightly peppery flavor. It goes well with tomatoes, garlic, and other Mediterranean ingredients. Holy basil, on the other hand, has an intense and pungent flavor with a hint of camphor. The depth and complexity it brings to a dish is unparalleled, especially those with spicy or earthy tones.
Health Benefits Of Tulsi:
Tulsi and holy basil have many of the same health benefits. Tulsi contains antioxidants and is therefore associated with its health benefits, such as improving digestion and reducing inflammation for optimal cognitive function. Tulsi is probably called so because of its revered place as a medicine in Ayurveda. It is considered an adaptogen, which means it helps the body deal with stress.
Growing and harvesting
Sweet and holy basil are relatively easy to grow in gardens or containers. They prefer warm, sunny positions and well-drained soil. Regular mowing will encourage bushy growth and prevent the plants from flowering too early.
Tulsi vs Holy Basil – Can they be used interchangeably?
Basil and holy basil have very unique distinctive flavors and are best suited for the kind of recipes they are meant for. However, they can replace each other, but how you do it will completely depend on the dish you are preparing and the flavor you want to bring out and emphasize. I have used holy basil to cook pasta and even pesto sauce. The recipes did not taste the same but it was not a bad idea.
Be it the classic Italian flavour or the exotic Indian taste, these herbs will help you spice up your dishes and create a memorable meal.