If you have a basil plant and notice flowers blooming, don’t be so quick to throw them away! These beautiful flowers can actually be used in a variety of ways. Let us show you how you can make the most of them.
Basil is a widely beloved and aromatic herb. Its unique aroma and flavor make it a favorite in many dishes. Whether you have a garden or just a small balcony, growing your own basil is a great idea. It’s convenient, always fresh, and taking care of it is a breeze with just a few precautions.
But here’s something you may not know—don’t discard the flowers on your basil! These delicate flowers are not only edible, but they also offer a whole new level of culinary possibilities. These flowers resemble small ears, and although they are often cut and discarded, they can be a valuable addition to your dishes.
The Edible Delights of Basil Flowers
Basil plants have small spikes on each stem where tiny white flowers bloom. These spikes are usually cut when they reach a few centimeters in length. By cutting them, you allow the stem to grow stronger, resulting in more basil leaves.
However, you can let some of these spikes grow up to 10 or 15 centimeters in length and utilize them in the kitchen and beyond. Before using them, keep in mind that they need to be dried first.
To dry these spikes, simply separate them from the basil plant and place them in a sunny spot for a few hours. Make sure there is no wind, as it can blow the spikes away! After about 48 hours, when they are completely dry, they are ready to be used in various ways.
To preserve their aroma, it is recommended to store the dried basil spikes in a jar with a lid. Let’s now explore some simple ways to use them.
Basil-Infused Vinegar: A Game Changer
With the dried basil spikes, you can create delicious basil-infused vinegar right at home. Just place the dried spikes into a bottle and let them infuse for about 7 days. Afterward, strain the mixture, and voilà! You now have your very own homemade basil vinegar, without needing to go to the supermarket.
Give Birth to a New Seedling
Did you know that you can use the basil spikes to propagate new basil plants? Yes, it’s true! In this case, it’s best to dry the spikes directly on the plant. Once they have naturally fallen off, plant them in soft soil mixed with sand. Keep the soil moist and expose it to sunlight.
If you do this during spring or summer, you’re bound to see results! In just a few weeks, you’ll witness the birth of new leaves, and soon enough, a new basil plant will emerge. These are just a few alternative ways to use basil, and we encourage you to give them a try.
Don’t discard those basil flowers! Embrace their potential and unlock the golden possibilities they bring to your culinary adventures.
