In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of basil that can be used for pesto and help you choose the best one for your needs.
Did you know that there are over 60 varieties of basil? This flavorful herb is an essential ingredient in pesto, it grows lush in our gardens or on our balconies and terraces and allows us to give an irreplaceable taste to our dishes.
However, the type you use can significantly impact the flavor of the sauce. But with so many different types of basil available, it can be difficult to know which one is the best choice for pesto. Read on to find out the best types to use in your pesto sauce!
Common types of basil used in pesto
There are many different types of basil that can be used for pesto, and the best type for you will depend on your personal taste and the flavors you enjoy. Here are the best three types of basil for pesto:
Italian basil (Genovese)
Italian large-leaf basil is the type of basil that is traditionally used for pesto Genovese, the classic pesto sauce from the Genoa region of Italy. It has a sweet, fragrant flavor and a bright green color, and is often considered the best type of basil for pesto. This basil is relatively easy to find and reasonably priced, making it a good choice for those looking to make traditional pesto at home.
Sweet basil
Sweet basil is another popular choice for pesto, as it has a sweet, aromatic flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the sauce. It is also easy to find and relatively inexpensive, making it a good choice for those on a budget or looking for a widely available option. Sweet basil is a good choice for those who prefer a sweeter, more subtle flavor in their pesto.
Thai basil
Thai basil has a slightly spicier, more assertive flavor than Italian basil, and is a popular choice for pesto in some regions. It has a unique flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the sauce and is a good choice if you want to add a little extra kick to your pesto.
Thai basil is often used in Thai cooking, so it may be more difficult to find in some areas, but it is worth seeking out if you want to try something different in your pesto.
Other types
While Italian, sweet, and Thai basil are the major types of basil commonly used for pesto, there are many other types of basil that can also be used to add unique flavors and characteristics to the sauce. Some other types of basil that can be used for pesto include:
- Red Rubin basil: This variety of basil has deep red-purple leaves and a slightly sweet, spicy flavor. It can add vibrant color to your pesto and is a good choice if you want to add a little extra depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Lemon basil: This type of basil has a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in pesto. It is a good choice if you want to add a little extra zing to the sauce.
- Cinnamon basil: This type of basil has a warm, spicy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in pesto. It is a good choice if you want to add a little extra depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Holy basil: This type of basil has a strong, pungent flavor that is often used in Indian cooking. It can add a unique depth of flavor to pesto and is a good choice for those looking to experiment with different flavors.
- Purple basil: This type of basil has deep purple leaves and a sweet, aromatic flavor. It can add vibrant color to your pesto and is a good choice if you want to add a little extra depth of flavor to the sauce.
Overall, the best type of basil for pesto is one that you enjoy and that pairs well with the other ingredients in the sauce. Experiment with different types of basil to find the one that works best for you and your pesto.
Remember, you can also mix and match different types of basil to create your own unique pesto blend. For example, you could try combining sweet basil with lemon basil for a brighter, more citrusy flavor, or mix Thai basil with red Rubin basil for a spicier, more colorful pesto. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to try something new and get creative with your pesto ingredients!
In addition to using different types of basil, you can also experiment with other ingredients to add flavor and depth to your pesto. For example, you could try adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro or use different types of nuts like walnuts or pecans instead of pine nuts. You can also try adding different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to add a different flavor profile to your pesto.
What part of basil do you use for pesto?
When making pesto, it is best to use the top leaves of the basil plant, as they are the most flavorful and aromatic. You can leave the lower leaves hanging and simply nip the top off, removing the stem as needed. This will help ensure that you are using the freshest, most flavorful part of the basil plant in your pesto.
It is also a good idea to remove any wilted or damaged leaves from the basil plant before using it in your pesto. These leaves may be less flavorful and can negatively impact the overall taste of the sauce.
To prepare the basil for pesto, simply wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris, and then pat them dry with a paper towel or a clean cloth. You can then chop the leaves finely or process them in a food processor or blender, depending on your desired consistency.
Can you use basil stems in pesto?
Remember to use only the top leaves of the basil plant, as they are the most flavorful and aromatic. This will help ensure that your pesto has the best possible taste and texture. The stems, on the other, hand are hard and woody, and therefore not ideal for pesto.
Overall, the key to making a great pesto is to use high-quality ingredients and to experiment with different flavors and combinations until you find the one that works best for you. So don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new – the perfect pesto is out there waiting for you!
