Cocktails with Fresh basil leaves
Basil is an aromatic culinary herb from the mint family, prized for its fragrant green leaves.
Taste profile
Sweet and peppery with a distinct anise-clove undertone and a green, herbaceous aroma that lifts as the leaves are torn.
How it's used
Contributing aroma and a fresh herbal note, the leaves are gently muddled or clapped to express their oils without shredding them into bitterness, or floated whole as a garnish; a few leaves are enough per drink.
Substitutes for Fresh basil leaves
Other soft aromatic herbs such as mint, though the anise character will be lost.
Description
Fresh basil leaves are picked whole from the soft-stemmed plant and used unbruised until the moment of preparation, when they release their volatile oils. The leaves are tender and bright green, wilting quickly once cut.
Storage
Highly perishable; keep the stems in water or wrap loosely and refrigerate, using within a few days before the leaves blacken.
