Basil (Ocimum) is a genus of aromatic herbs some of which can be used fresh or dried for culinary purposes. There are Ocimum species native to Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Caribbean and South America.
Where are basil originally from?
Basil is likely native to India and is widely grown as a kitchen herb.
Is basil indigenous to Europe?
BASIL [SWEET BASIL] (Ocimum basilicum): Origin: native to India. Some sources report that the word basil is linked with the Greek word for king (βασιλεύς= Basileus)while others say the plant is named after a fabled reptile, the basilisk, a beast that could kill a person by its breath or glance.
What is European basil?
Referred to as the “royal herb” by ancient Greeks, this summer herb is a member of the mint family. European is milder than our California and has a slight anise flavor.
What culture is basil from?
India
Origins of Basil
Basil is a member of the large mint family, or Lamiaceae family, along with other culinary herbs like rosemary, sage, and even lavender. It is believed that basil has origins in India, but the herb has been cultivated for over 5,000 with its reach spreading to all corners of the globe.
When did basil arrive in Europe?
Basil was not introduced in Britain until the 16th century and they later brought this herb to North America. Today it is grown all over the Mediterranean region and in California.
How did basil get to Europe?
Basil is undoubtedly the most loved and popular herb in Italy. Although we tend to associate it with Italy and other Mediterranean countries, it actually originated in India, and was brought to the Mediterranean via the spice routes in ancient times.
Where is basil grown in the world?
Basil is one of the most popular herbs grown in the world. It is native to Asia (India, Pakistan, Iran, Thailand and other countries) and can be found growing wild in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Because of its popularity, basil is often referred to as the “king of the herbs”.
Why is basil Italian?
Sweet basil, or Ocimum basilicum, actually was named from the Greek word “basileus”, which means king. Although one cannot imagine Italian cooking without basil, it might be surprising for many to find out that basil originated in India, and was brought to Italy via the spice route during ancient times.
Where did Thai basil originate?
Southeast Asia
Thai Basil is native to Southeast Asia, though its exact origin is somewhat debated since its history of cultivation dates back approximately 5,000 years.
Is Thai basil same as basil?
What Is Thai Basil? Thai basil is a variety of basil (Ocimum basilicum) best known for its use in Asian and Thai cuisine. Unlike its cousin, Italian basil (aka Genovese basil), Thai basil has sturdy, resilient leaves that stand up well to extended cooking times and prolonged heat.
Is there a difference between basil and Thai basil?
But setting looks aside, Thai basil is spicy with an anise, or licorice-like flavor, while sweet basil has a more mild peppery and sweet taste (for reference, sweet basil is commonly used as a main ingredient in Genovese-style pesto).
What is the difference between Thai basil and regular basil?
In terms of taste, Thai basil smells like anise and has a more licorice smell with a slightly spicy taste. Sweet basil has the classic aroma that reminds you of pesto and has more of a clove like.
What did basil symbolize?
Basil is one tasty little plant, but it’s suffered a symbolism identity crisis over the years. Originally meaning “hate,” it later became embraced as a symbol of love. During the Victorian era Sweet Basil conveyed “good wishes” to the receiver. In Italy, a man who accepted basil from a woman was destined to marry her.
What does basil represent in Greece?
The oldest origin of the word “basil,” according to the OED, is the ancient Greek basileus, meaning “king” (the same root as “basilica,” which originally referred to a royal doorway).
Why is basil called basil?
The word basil comes from the Greek βασιλεύς (basileus), meaning “royal”. This is because it is believed to have grown above the spot where St. Constantine and Helen discovered the Holy Cross. The Oxford English Dictionary quotes speculations that basil may have been used in “some royal unguent, bath, or medicine”.
Why is basil so popular in Italy?
In Italy, basil was once known as a symbol of love. In ancient times it was believed that placing basil leaves on insect bites would draw out the poison. It is thought that Alexander the Great bought basil to the Greece in 350BC and it then spread to the rest of the Mediterranean region.
Where is basil most used?
The most common use of basil is for cooking, such as in tomato sauce, pesto, or vinegars. But it also can be sprinkled over salads and sliced tomatoes, either whole or chopped. Actually, don’t chop the leaves, but tear them instead for the most flavor.
When did Italy get basil?
From Asia the plant would then travel around the world, first migrating to the Middle East thanks to the spice traders, in countries with an ideal climate such as Iran and Egypt, then around 350 BC in Greece and Italy , thanks probably to the army of Charlemagne who moved east with scholars in tow, and finally after
Is basil toxic?
Basil contains a chemical, estragole, which has caused liver cancer in laboratory mice. Children: Basil is LIKELY SAFE for children in food amounts. But larger medicinal amounts are POSSIBLY UNSAFE. Basil contains a chemical, estragole, which has caused liver cancer in laboratory mice.
When did basil originate?
Basil is the common name for the culinary herb Ocimum basilicum, which is a member of the mint family. Thought to originate from Africa, the herb was domesticated in India, and then introduced to America in the 17th century by way of the English.
Justin Shelton is a professional cook. He’s been in the industry for over 10 years, and he loves nothing more than creating delicious dishes for others to enjoy. Justin has worked in some of the best kitchens in the country, and he’s always looking for new challenges and ways to improve his craft. When he’s not cooking, Justin enjoys spending time with his wife and son. He loves exploring new restaurants and trying out different cuisines.