Until recently, I would have put my hand up, too. But delving into history, I’ve learned how vital this herb is across gastronomy, symbolism and emotion. Because of that, basil has been upgraded from the window sill to a permanent place in my garden.
What was basil first used for?
It might surprise you to learn that peppery-flavoured basil is over 4,000 years old. Across the ancient world, this tender plant was thought to have magical powers. The Greeks referred to it as kingly, with the ability to open gateways to heaven and tucked it in the hands of the dead to help give them safe passage to the afterlife. The Indians planted it around their temples to protect the dead. It was used during embalming in Ancient Egypt as an antidote for snake and insect bites. Basil was placed on window ledges by the ancient Cretans to ward away evil, and it’s referenced in some of the 700 herbal medicines of the Ebers Papyrus (c. 1550 B.C.).
What does basil symbolise?
In Portugal, manjerico (a small pot of basil) is given as a gift of love on the religious feast days of St. Anthony and St. John. It is planted on grave sites as a homage to the deceased in Egypt, Iran and Malaysia. And in Romania, a girl places basil under her pillow, and if she dreams of a man she likes, they will marry in the next 12 months.
In the Med, the Italians took a more culinary approach and added it to homemade tomato sauces, pesto and vinegar. In present-day Australia, basil can be found in greengrocers and supermarkets or on sunny kitchen window sills, waiting to grace pizzas, pasta and Thai dishes.
If you are shopping for basil, ensure you choose brightly-coloured and blemish-free sprigs. Wrap it in a paper towel and place it in the fridge for up to five days. If your basil is homegrown, chop or tear the leaves just before use to prevent them from turning black.
Basil-filled recipes for you to try
With basil readily available in the supermarket, now’s the time to pick up a few sprigs and make these delicious winter meals.
Cheese and basil sausage rolls
Basil and broccoli pesto lamb bowl
Basil grows best in summer, but you can still find it at your local supermarket. You’ll need to buy smaller portions, but that means now’s a good time to make pesto or homemade dried basil.
More herb-filled recipes
45 recipes made better with basil
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