Pesto sauce, tulsi tea, Thai soup - basil is used in many culinary creations but we are not really sure if we should use the holy basil from the plant in our homes or get the other kind, known as sweet basil. I love the flavour of basil in my food but when I cook, I often get confused about which one to pick. Does it happen to you too? Let's first get this fact straight - basil and holy basil are similar but not the same! While these two are versatile herbs, they have unique flavours and culinary uses.
Understanding their differences can help you make informed choices and it will work out for a better flavour in your food. Also Read: 9 Incredible Benefits Of Basil Leaves You May Not Have Known Basil Vs Holy Basil - Botanical Differences Basil (Ocimum basilicum) and holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) belong to the same genus but different species. The common type of basil comes in different varieties that can range from bright green leaves to the ones with a shade of purple.
They are sweet and peppery in taste. Holy basil, also known as tulsi, comes with smaller leaves that are green in colour with purple veins and have a stronger, more pungent aroma and taste. Basil Vs Holy Basil - Different Culinary Uses Uses Of Basil In Cooking: Uses Of Holy Basil In Cooking: Also Read : 7 Yummy Recipes To Include Basil In Your Daily Diet Basil Vs Holy Basil - Flavour Profiles Basil has a sweetish flavour with a bright and slightly peppery taste.
It goes well with tomatoes, garlic, and other Medit.