Holy Basil (Thai Basil) — ใบกะเพรา (bai kra phrao) — Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum
Holy basil, also known as Thai basil or bai kraphae (ใบกะเพรา) in Thai, is a popular herb in Thai cuisine that has a strong, peppery flavor. It is a member of the Lamiaceae family, which also includes mint, oregano, and rosemary. Holy basil is native to Southeast Asia and India, and it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Botanical Classification
The scientific name for holy basil is Ocimum tenuiflorum, but it is also sometimes classified as Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora. It is a small, bushy herb that grows to about 1–2 feet tall. The leaves of holy basil are oval-shaped and have serrated edges. They are dark green in color and have a strong, pungent aroma.
Culinary Uses
Holy basil is a key ingredient in many Thai dishes, including stir-fries, curries, and soups. It is also used to make a popular Thai sauce called nam prik pla kraphae (holy basil fish sauce). Holy basil has a strong, peppery flavor that is often described as being similar to black pepper, licorice, and cloves. It is a versatile herb that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Health Benefits
Holy basil has been shown to have a number of health benefits, including:
- Antioxidant properties: Holy basil is a rich source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Holy basil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce pain and swelling.
- Antibacterial properties: Holy basil has antibacterial properties that can help to fight off infection.
- Adaptogenic properties: Holy basil is an adaptogen, which means that it can help the body to adapt to stress.
How to Use Holy Basil
Holy basil can be used fresh, dried, or in powdered form. Fresh holy basil is the most flavorful, but it can also be difficult to find. Dried holy basil and holy basil powder are more readily available and can be used in most recipes.
Here are some tips for using holy basil:
- Add fresh holy basil leaves to dishes at the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
- Use dried holy basil or holy basil powder in place of fresh holy basil in recipes.
- Experiment with different ways to use holy basil in your cooking. It can be added to soups, stews, stir-fries, marinades, and even desserts.
Where to Buy Holy Basil
Holy basil can be found in many Asian markets and specialty grocery stores. It is also becoming more common in mainstream grocery stores. If you cannot find fresh holy basil, you can also use dried holy basil or holy basil powder.
In addition to the information above, here are some other interesting facts about holy basil:
- Holy basil is considered a sacred herb in Hinduism and Buddhism.
- Holy basil is often used in traditional Thai medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, coughs, and digestive problems.
- Holy basil is a popular ingredient in aromatherapy. The essential oil of holy basil is said to have a calming and relaxing effect.
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