A Vital Herb (Basil)

Member Name: Mask_and_Mirror

Product:	Basil
Date:	02/07/09 (26 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Beautiful scent, having own plant far better (and cheaper!) than dried or supermarket herbs

Disadvantages: Very delicate plant, needs watering often.

When I cook, I like nothing more than having a selection of fresh herbs at my disposal. Basil is a classic ingredient, essential for many Mediterranean dishes. Dried basil is no real substitute in most recipes, so having a plant of your own is a must.

I have various herb plants growing in the garden; sage, rosemary and thyme for example, but basil, being delicate and used to warmer climes, must be kept indoors in a pot. This can be annoying, because unless it is watered very frequently it will dry out very quickly. Many times I have begun cooking only to realise it has wilted. It can be revived if it's not too far gone, but I have had to replace it many times already.

On the other hand, if you're not quite as forgetful as me, a basil plant is a wonderful thing to have around- the leaves are great in salads, on pizzas, on toasted cheese, in pasta sauces, they even taste great on their own! You can even make your own pesto, which is well worth a go.

The plant also has a lovely scent when healthy.

Summary: Get a basil plant for your kitchen, but don't forget to water it like I always do!