Basil is an edible annual herbaceous plant that has an amazing aroma and pleasant taste, has many beneficial properties and is therefore widely used in cooking, cosmetology and medicine. The source of benefits of the basil can be its brush-shaped flowers, and, without a doubt, elastic red-purple, green-purple, burgundy leaves.

You can store basil by pre-drying it on the street under an awning or in a well-ventilated area. From this article, the reader will be able to learn about the benefits of dried basil.

As a rule, it is the basil leaves that are dried, and the grass harvested in this way is widely used in cooking, which is especially characteristic of French, Greek, South and West European cuisine. It goes well with fish, eggs, pasta, pizza, soups, lamb, green vegetables and tomatoes.

Basil can outperform most other herbs in its nutrients. It is very rich in various vitamins (among them - vitamins A, C, E, K, beta-carotene, riboflavin, thiamine, folic acid, pyridoxine, choline), trace elements (such as iron, copper, zinc, selenium, manganese), macroelements (calcium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium), saponins, tannins, glycosides, simple sugars, phytoncides, and vegetable fats. Moreover, the energy value of dried basil is 251 Kcal per 100 grams.

Due to its rich and diverse composition, as well as the presence of such a wide range of various minerals, dried basil is actively used in dietetic nutrition. During the diet, the body suffers from a lack of vitamins and other useful substances, which this dried green is quite able to make up for.

However, the use of dried basil is not limited only to cooking. You should know that dried basil is not only a spicy seasoning, but also a medicine that has anti-inflammatory, astringent, cleansing, wound healing effects.

The benefits of dried basil cannot be overestimated. Its active antiseptic properties make it useful to drink tea from this herb or infusion of dried basil during flu outbreaks. In addition, basil can help improve the functioning of the digestive system, improve blood circulation. Often dried basil use   to relieve toothache, using infusion of basil to rinse the mouth. In the same way (rinsing) with the help of dried basil, throat diseases are treated. This herb, which can rightly be called medicinal, helps to relax the smooth muscles of the uterus, eliminates bloating.

Tea from basil is a very popular medicine. It is prepared simply: a tablespoon of chopped dry grass is poured with a large glass of boiling water, boiled for 10 minutes, insisted for half an hour, then filtered. Such tea is used for diseases of the digestive tract, nervous system, as an antitussive, as well as for asthma, low blood pressure, intestinal colic, inflammation of the urogenital organs in men and women, and to enhance lactation in nursing mothers. And if honey is added to such tea, then brain activity and working capacity can be stimulated.

Basil can also be used to make a bath. To do this, you need to tie a gauze bag with chopped dry grass (it can be leaves, stems and flowers) of the basil to the tap, and fill the bath first with hot, and then dilute with cold water through the bag. The temperature of the finished bath should be 37 degrees. Such a bath will calm the nervous system and relieve irritation.

Remember that dried basil can only be stored in dry, cool places, as sunlight and moisture can destroy the color, aroma and beneficial properties of the herb.

Basil does not change its qualities when dried,   unlike many other spices. When dried, it does not lose its unique taste, the aroma also does not change and even slightly amplifies.

Dried basil completely retains its useful properties, is not inferior to fresh in terms of vitamins and minerals. The only vitamin that is reduced is Vitamin C.

Calorie content of dried basil - 230 kcal.   per 100 grams, of which:

• proteins 22.98 g;
• fats 4.07 g;
• carbohydrates 47.75 g.

• potassium - 2630 mg .;
• calcium - 2240 mg .;
• magnesium - 711 mg .;
• sodium - 76 mg .;
• phosphorus - 274 mg.

• iron - 89.8 mg .;
• manganese - 9.8 mg .;
• copper - 2100 mcg .;
• selenium - 3 mcg .;
• zinc 7.1 mg.

Photo

Benefit and harm

Beneficial features:

• Basil, due to the content of various antioxidants, is able to beneficially affect the human cardiovascular system, allows you to maintain youth and health.
• It has antibacterial and antiseptic effects, heals wounds, relieves fever and strengthens the nervous system.
• Modern medicine uses it as a means to combat stress, and the components of this plant are included in drugs to improve memory.
• Extracting basil essential oils can heal wounds, kill microbes, which is why it is often used in the preparation of gargles for sore throats with angina, and for bronchial asthma as an expectorant.

Contraindications to the use of basil:

• Basil greens contain mercury compounds, for this reason it is harmful to patients with diabetes mellitus, patients with increased blood coagulation, as well as suffering from hypertension, angina pectoris, epilepsy.
• Caution and in moderation should be eaten by pregnant and lactating women.

Important:   like any plant rich in essential oils, basil can be a pretty strong allergen!

How to dry at home?

Lucky people living in regions with a warm climate can grow several basil crops a year and constantly have aromatic spice on their table. If the climate does not allow such luxury, and the basil harvest is grown considerable, it becomes urgent to dry your favorite grass for the winter.

How can this be done? Whatever method you choose, the first and most important thing is to harvest the crop on time.

A variety of basil can be anything: green, purple,   all of them are good in dried form, provided that they are collected before flowering.

The ideal time to collect is morning, as soon as the dew has dried on the greenery. Do not harvest under the scorching sun or in the rain. If possible, basil should be dried naturally. Further details on how to dry the plant at home.

How to dry basil for the winter at home, see the video below:

Natural drying

You can spread the washed leaves on a clean cloth or baking sheet,cover with gauze from dust and put in a warm, dark, dry and always ventilated place for about a week.

The second option is drying by hanging. Young shoots of basil need to be tied in bundles of 4-6 stems, then hung on a rope in the attic or under a canopy. The main condition is the lack of direct sunlight and good air exchange in the room.

Drying will take approximately two weeks, the readiness can be determined by the fragility of the stems: if it breaks, it means it has dried, if it bends, we continue to dry.

Use of electrical appliances

If using the natural drying method is not possible, you can use an oven or an electric dryer.

1. Before drying in the oven, the leaves should be washed, dried on a paper towel.
2. After a couple of hours, when the leaves have dried, you need to lay them out on a baking sheet covered with parchment and send them to the oven preheated to 80-100 degrees.
3. Leave the oven door ajar. Drying time is one and a half to two hours.

The electric dryer is good in that it maintains the desired temperature and at the same time provides ventilation of the raw materials.

Washed and dried leaves are laid out on the pallets of the dryer and set the temperature to 35-40 degrees. Drying takes approximately 4 hours.   and does not require owner control.

For more information on drying basil in an electric dryer, see the video below:

How to use and where to add?

Dried basil is most widely used, of course, in cooking. It can be used as an independent seasoning, for example, in combination with mozzarella cheese and tomatoes, or as part of multicomponent mixtures, such as Italian herbs or Provence herbs.

As part of these mixtures, basil is adjacent to dried chopped garlic, rosemary, sage, peppermint and marjoram. These spices are actively used in the preparation of:

• different types of pasta;
• baking pizza;
• serve as an excellent seasoning for meat dishes, especially lamb, as well as chicken dishes.

In addition to cooking, in everyday life, a decoction of basil is used to treat the oral cavity with stomatitis, tonsillitis, inhalation.   To do this, in a thermos brew 2 tablespoons of dry basil in 0.5 liters of water. The broth will be ready after 5-6 hours.

To raise immunity, basil is brewed like tea, at the rate of 0.5 teaspoon per glass of boiling water. Drink the drink throughout the day, adding sugar, honey or raspberry jam to taste.

Storage

After drying, pick off the leaves from the branches and grind them to a state of fine powder. Then pour into small, absolutely dry and clean glass jars and close tightly. On the jar, it is desirable to sign the name of the spice and the date of preparation. Store dried basil in a dry, dark, cool place.

Attention:   dried basil is preferably used within two years after harvesting.

Where can I buy?

Dried basil is widely marketed. and as an independent spice and as part of mixtures with other spices. It is sold in packaging from 10 grams, can be packed in a moisture-proof paper bag or in a small glass jar.

You can buy this seasoning everywhere, from a small chain supermarket to a market or online store. The price of the smallest bag will be 15-20 rubles, a kilogram of dried herbs will cost 1000-1200 rubles.

In St. Petersburg and Moscow, a large selection of this spice from various manufacturers can be found in Auchan, Lenta, Metro, Perekrestok hypermarkets.

Also dried basil is a very popular souvenir in places of its growth,   for example in the south of France and Italy. Tourists willingly purchase inexpensive, fragrant bags as a gift to relatives and friends. The undoubted advantage of this souvenir is its low weight and versatility.

When buying dried basil, you should pay attention to the integrity and appearance of the packaging, shelf life, as well as the place of manufacture. In the market, you can additionally evaluate the aroma of spices, the uniformity of the composition and the absence of impurities.

Properly prepared dried basil will be an excellent assistant in the kitchen, diversify the usual dishes, increase immunity and vitality of all family members.

Dried basilrich in vitamins and minerals such as: vitamin B2 - 66.7%, choline - 11%, vitamin B5 - 16.8%, vitamin B6 - 67%, vitamin B9 - 77.5%, vitamin E - 71.3% , vitamin K - 1428.8%, vitamin PP - 24.5%, potassium - 105.2%, calcium - 224%, magnesium - 177.8%, phosphorus - 34.3%, iron - 498.9%, manganese - 490%, copper - 210%, zinc - 59.2%

What is useful Basil, dried

• Vitamin B2   participates in redox reactions, enhances color susceptibility with a visual analyzer and dark adaptation. An insufficient intake of vitamin B2 is accompanied by a violation of the condition of the skin, mucous membranes, and a violation of light and twilight vision.
• Choline   part of lecithin, plays a role in the synthesis and metabolism of phospholipids in the liver, is a source of free methyl groups, acts as a lipotropic factor.
• Vitamin B5   participates in protein, fat, carbohydrate metabolism, cholesterol metabolism, the synthesis of a number of hormones, hemoglobin, promotes the absorption of amino acids and sugars in the intestine, supports the function of the adrenal cortex. Pantothenic acid deficiency can lead to damage to the skin and mucous membranes.
• Vitamin B6 participates in the maintenance of the immune response, the processes of inhibition and excitation in the central nervous system, in the conversion of amino acids, the metabolism of tryptophan, lipids and nucleic acids, contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells, maintaining a normal level of homocysteine \u200b\u200bin the blood. Insufficient intake of vitamin B6 is accompanied by a decrease in appetite, a violation of the condition of the skin, the development of homocysteinemia, anemia.
• Vitamin B9   as a coenzyme involved in the metabolism of nucleic and amino acids. Folate deficiency leads to impaired synthesis of nucleic acids and protein, which results in inhibition of cell growth and division, especially in rapidly proliferating tissues: bone marrow, intestinal epithelium, etc. Inadequate folate intake during pregnancy is one of the causes of prematurity, malnutrition, congenital malformations and impaired development of the child. A pronounced relationship between the level of folate, homocysteine \u200b\u200band the risk of cardiovascular disease is shown.
• Vitamin E   possesses antioxidant properties, is necessary for the functioning of the sex glands, cardiac muscle, is a universal stabilizer of cell membranes. With a deficiency of vitamin E, hemolysis of red blood cells, neurological disorders are observed.
• Vitamin K   regulates blood coagulation. A lack of vitamin K leads to an increase in blood coagulation time, a reduced content of prothrombin in the blood.
• Vitamin PP   participates in redox reactions of energy metabolism. Inadequate intake of vitamin is accompanied by a violation of the normal state of the skin, gastrointestinal tract and nervous system.
• Potassium   It is the main intracellular ion that takes part in the regulation of water, acid and electrolyte balance, and is involved in the processes of nerve impulses and pressure regulation.
• Calcium   It is the main component of our bones, acts as a regulator of the nervous system, is involved in muscle contraction. Calcium deficiency leads to demineralization of the spine, pelvic bones and lower extremities, increases the risk of osteoporosis.
• Magnesium   participates in energy metabolism, the synthesis of proteins, nucleic acids, has a stabilizing effect for membranes, is necessary to maintain homeostasis of calcium, potassium and sodium. A lack of magnesium leads to hypomagnesemia, an increased risk of developing hypertension, heart disease.
• Phosphorus takes part in many physiological processes, including energy metabolism, regulates the acid-base balance, is part of phospholipids, nucleotides and nucleic acids, is necessary for the mineralization of bones and teeth. Deficiency leads to anorexia, anemia, rickets.
• Iron   is part of proteins of various functions, including enzymes. Participates in the transport of electrons, oxygen, provides the occurrence of redox reactions and activation of peroxidation. Inadequate intake leads to hypochromic anemia, skeletal muscle myoglobin deficiency, fatigue, myocardiopathy, and atrophic gastritis.
• Manganese   participates in the formation of bone and connective tissue, is part of enzymes included in the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates, catecholamines; necessary for the synthesis of cholesterol and nucleotides. Insufficient consumption is accompanied by growth retardation, disorders in the reproductive system, increased fragility of bone tissue, and disorders of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.
• Copper   It is part of enzymes with redox activity and involved in the metabolism of iron, stimulates the absorption of proteins and carbohydrates. Participates in the processes of supplying human body tissues with oxygen. Deficiency is manifested by impaired formation of the cardiovascular system and skeleton, the development of connective tissue dysplasia.
• Zinc   is part of more than 300 enzymes, participates in the processes of synthesis and decomposition of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, nucleic acids and in the regulation of the expression of a number of genes. Inadequate intake leads to anemia, secondary immunodeficiency, cirrhosis, sexual dysfunction, and fetal malformations. Recent studies have shown the ability of high doses of zinc to interfere with the absorption of copper and thereby contribute to the development of anemia.

You can see the complete reference to the most useful products in the application

An amazingly fragrant plant called basil from the mint herb family was originally grown as a medicine. The essential oils contained in the fragrant leaves have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which are widely used in practice in ancient times by pharmacists and family doctors. In cooking, basil began to be used later, but the result of its use in food was so striking that the popularity of this herb increased every day, rapidly gaining momentum.

Lemon basil - application

There are several varieties of basil, which are currently widely used to flavor culinary dishes and give them a special taste. The most common vegetables are green and purple basil. But sometimes basil greens with a lemon aroma are also used. Such leaves with a citrus note perfectly set off the taste of fish dishes and seafood dishes, and are also used to make sauces that are most suitable for complementing seafood.

Dried basil - application

In cooking, both fresh basil leaves and dried, which fully preserve all aromatic and valuable properties, are equally used. To harvest them, fresh foliage is dried in a darkened, warm place away from direct sunlight.

Dried basil is added to a wide variety of dishes, to dressings for salads, marinades and sauces, and they also make healthy herbal teas from them. Any food, seasoned with dried basil leaves, acquires a unique, original, incomparable taste that never palls, even with frequent use.

Dried basil perfectly complements pasta, pizza, dishes from fresh tomatoes and other vegetables, as well as various soups and even some desserts.

Basil - canning application

Recently, basil is increasingly added to marinades with, and sometimes fruits. There are many recipes in which basil leaves dominate other aromatic and flavoring additives or even replace them. The unique spicy spicy aroma of basil with tart notes will give tomatoes or cucumbers a special taste that cannot be achieved by using other spices.

When preserving, the bactericidal properties of basil, which will play the role of a kind of preservative, will also be of considerable value.

The use of basil as a seasoning for meat

Fresh basil leaves are not only an indispensable component of salads, as well as first and second courses. Without them, especially in the Caucasus, they will not serve barbecue. There, spicy grass is added to almost all meat dishes. As a last resort, in dried form, but basil should invariably be present in them, filling the taste of meat dishes with piquant colors.

For the same purpose, in Italy they cook from fresh basil, which is complemented by most meat dishes. In French cuisine, there are also many variations of basil meat sauces, without which dishes lose their appeal and appetite.

To use fresh basil in food, it is not recommended to chop it with a knife. It is best to tear the leaves with your hands, so they will fragrance even more, exuding a striking aroma. For the same purpose, basil should be added at the end of cooking, when it comes to heat treatment. When using dried basil, say for sauces or dressings, it is necessary to add it on the contrary in advance and allow time to brew so that the aroma can fully reveal.

Spicy basil is a popular seasoning, widely used both by cooks in top-class restaurants and hostesses at home. Culinary experts from around the world are very positive about this spice, which is why it is in the forefront of the most exquisite spices. Dried basil is a unique food supplement that can make the taste of any dish simply amazing. By the way, you can make others.

Adding basil in the preparation of homemade pastes and sausages will give these dishes a piquant and unique touch. It can be found in almost all Mediterranean dishes. By adding a pinch to pickled cucumbers or zucchini, these vegetables will become a real masterpiece. True gourmets appreciate the basil for its peculiar and very rich taste, which combines various shades: sharpness, pungency, notes of camphor. We also advise you to pay attention to the ways quickly and correctly.

  Useful properties of dried basil

In addition to the amazing taste and aroma, basil is endowed with a mass of useful substances, which determines its use not only in cooking, but also in medicine. Dried basil has a number of useful properties, some of which are similar to antibiotics. This spicy herb is recommended as an excellent way to prevent colds, relieve headaches and lower body temperature. In addition, with its help you can cope with the inflammatory processes of the skin, eyes and internal organs.

Recently, scientists have found that dried basil is a protective agent against radiation and diseases caused by its exposure.

The benefits of dried basil cannot be overestimated, since its antiseptic properties make it useful to drink tea with its addition during the flu and colds. In addition, it improves digestion and blood circulation, is used to relieve toothache. Gargling with a decoction of dried basil often treats a throat disease.

Dried basil can be used to prepare relaxing baths, soothing teas and drinks, which increase working capacity and brain activity.

  Using Dried Basil in Cooking

In all restaurants in the world, basil is used in the preparation of the most unusual and expensive dishes.

In total, a pinch of this seasoning is capable of creating real miracles. It for the better changes the taste of soups, meat, fish and vegetable dishes, preservation and omelettes will also acquire an original piquant taste and unique aroma thanks to the basil. This seasoning is also suitable for preparing dressings and sauces. Often it is added in the preparation of alcoholic beverages.

Basil goes well with rosemary, tarragon, coriander and mint, so we recommend using a mixture of these spices in the preparation of your favorite dishes.

  Contraindications

It is worth remembering that the beneficial properties of dried basil appear only with moderate use, so you can not abuse it. It is not recommended to use it for people suffering from cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, as well as allergies and small children.