However, how can you differentiate them? Genovese Basil is also known as Ocimum basilicum ‘Genovese’. The two types of basil cultivars that are used in Italian cooking include Sweet Basil, the most common cultivar, and Genovese Basil. I’d appreciate an expert’s opinion.Thanks! This is also very common as a pot herb.The difference between what your husband remembers and what you have recently purchased may be the above two varieties. Write a review. The best and most aromatic basil, with a sweet taste and soft, tender texture. The most common basil is 'Genovese basil' (Ocimum basilicum), which is often referred to as sweet basil. ), Some other varieties of basil:• Large pale green lettuce-leafed basil (O. b. crispum)• Lemon basil (O. b. americanum or O. b. citriodorum)• Licorice or anise basil• Opal and purple basil• Also: Thai basil, East Indian basil, Puerto Rican basil, Cuban basil, Aussie sweet basil, Baja basil, Italian basil, etc.Each has its own unique scent - fennel, tarragon, citron, gingerish, clove-mint, etc.Here is an excellent reference on Basil and its different aromas/flavors and an explanation of the aroma components, www2.hawaii.edu/~theodore/Images/basil.pdfChef James, FoodReference.com. Whereas Genovese basil is a stronger flavour preferred by chefs – a bit like a combination of aniseed and cloves. Sweet or Genovese basil … Many refer to this variety as “Sweet” or “Common” basil. H 18 – 24’’ S 12 – 15’’ Sun or Part Shade: Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' is an annual native to India, Africa, and Asia. Genovese basil has a distinct and robust taste that is a mix of anise, peppery, and a bit sweet. Genovese basil has a shiny leaf that curls under as the plant gets bigger. The two types of basil cultivars that are used in Italian cooking include Sweet Basil, the most common cultivar, and Genovese Basil. Ever thought about producing home grown organic basil leaves. The two types of basil cultivars that are used in Italian cooking include Sweet Basil, the most common cultivar, and Genovese Basil. While quite suitable for field and garden, we recommend using a more modern and more uniform variety for greenhouse, container, or hydroponic production, such as Genovese Compact Improved, Aroma 2, Nufar, Dolly, Elidia, or Eleonora. Carole, ANSWER:Hello Carole,There are many varieties of basil, sweet basil (common basil) (Ocimum basilicum) has dark green leaves is the most common. Follow. What is basil? There are many varieties of basil, sweet basil (common basil) (Ocimum basilicum) has dark green leaves is the most common. The flavour is pungent, slightly spicy, and very aromatic. It is one of the most popular basils for culinary use, particularly for its use in pesto. Does beautifully in containers. Basil is relatively easy to grow and is one of the most popular herbs for use in the kitchen. They are excellent for pesto, caprise salad and other dishes that require large, fresh basil leaves. Perfect raw with tomatoes and as the main ingredient for a fresh pesto. However, you may have trouble finding it. Indeed, even if you did not grow it before you might have encountered and eaten in a large variety of dishes. Genovese basil is so entwined with Italian cuisine and culture that it's easy to forget that basil was a transplant to Italy and not a native plant. In summer, stash the flavour away in basil oil to use on pasta and salads right through the winter. The name Basil comes from Latin for royal. basil, Organically grown sweet genovese, sweet basil, basil plants, sweet basil plants, genovese basil plants, pesto basil, basil for pesto Basil leaves were used to make royal perfumes. It has a spicy aroma with a sweet clove-like taste. Basil is also a companion plant and protects against aphids as well as encouraging beneficial insect pollinators. Either one may be used for the preparation of pesto, a common food used in Italian cooking, although many people prefer the taste of Genovese basil for pesto. Despite regular basil (Genovese or sweet) and holy basil belong to the same family, they are two different species that differ for: – Appareance: leaves shape and flowers – Taste: stronger for holy basil – Recipes: more dishes with regular – Life span: holy basil is perennial. Home | Articles | Food Trivia | Today in Food History | Food Timeline | Recipes | COOKING_TIPS | Videos | Food Quotes | Who’s Who | Culinary Schools & Tours | Food_Trivia_Quizzes | Food Poems | Free Magazines | Food Festivals and Events. Basil does not require fertile soil, however it performs best when organic matter is added. Know When You Can Start Growing Basil Outdoors. Like sweet basil, this annual has a strong clove fragrance and ranges from 12 to 24 inches in height, but is easily distinguished by its more crinkly and in-turned leaves. The sweet, large, dark-green leaves grow up to 2 inches long, and the plant is slow to go to seed in the heat. This common strain of Genovese basil can present some variability in leaf shape and plant size. DFJ will show you how to easily and quickly dry and store your basil for use all year round. Go Green Sweet Genovese Basil Organic Seeds (Pack of 100 seeds) can help you to grow organic basil leaves in your home. Water plants sparingly, ideally before noon so the roots have time to dry out before temperatures decrease in the evening. Now you know that they are different. Sweet Basil (see above): The most commonly found type in the U.S. and the most familiar, sweet basil has smooth, bright green leaves that are essential in pesto. One of the most popular herbs, it is now cultivated in all temperate climates throughout the world. Can anyone tell me what the difference is between these? Thai Basil has the traditional basil sweetness, but it’s also spicier than most basil varieties. Adding a great Mediterranean taste to the cuisine, Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' (Sweet Basil) is an annual herb boasting large shiny leaves that can be used for rice dishes, poultry, fish, potatoes and vegetables, dressings or marinades. 14 years ago. This variety is grown for its delicious flavor and aroma and used primarily in Italy for pesto. Comments (2) nygardener. I like sweet basil for things like tomato salads (capressi salads) and in pasta sauces. Aside from the other varieties mentioned below, there are also several different cultivars of this basic, common variety of basil, each with slightly different aromas. There are several varieties available, and Genovese is renowned for its fragrance and is the traditional basil used in pesto. FREE MAGAZINESand other PublicationsAn extensive selection of free magazines and other publications, QUESTION:Hi JamesDo you know of any difference between “sweet” basil and regular? Sow seed indoors in a greenhouse or on a warm windowsill, and move plants outside in summer. Can't use all your fresh basil during the season? Slow to bolt as long as you regularly pinch the blooms. Genovese basil is a variety of sweet basil that originated in Italy. 24-30". Buh? It has a spicy aroma with a sweet clove-like taste. var vclk_options = { sid: 8240, placement_id: 'eb8faeb5-8de5-4b5d-1615-5a4aca4ef0e7', version: '1.4' }; Kitchen BasicsBaking & PastryRecipe VideosWorld Cuisine. Please feel free to link to any pages of FoodReference.com from your website. Basil – Genovese – Ocimum basilicum. Italian basil is not a real cultivar (by cultivar I mean “cultural variety”) of basil. Genovese basil produces bright green, slightly crinkled leaves that can grow up to 3 inches (7.6 cm.) The flavor of Genovese Basil has been regarded as having hints of mint and clove, while being peppery and spicy. This is the classic Italian basil, and the crucial ingredient for pesto! Leaves are up to 4" long and tend to be lighter in color than other pesto types. Most home and garden retailers will carry them. So if your recipes require a subtle flavour grow sweet basil at home. Germination Time: 5 days Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum Basil Leaves Uses Genovese basil (Ocimum basilicum) is also Italian basil or sweet basil. Most grocery stores will carry fresh Sweet Basil only, so if you want that authentic Italian experience you may need to consider growing basil yourself in the garden. Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' Biennial. Genovese basil is prized for its distinctive flavor-aroma profile and tender, deeply cupped, spoon-shaped leaves. Ht. It is a very versatile type of basil that can enhance numerous dishes and drinks. It’s the basil that you’ll find at your grocery store and on top of your margherita pizzas! long. Its flavor profile is a bright and herbaceous mint with notes of anise. GENOVESE BASIL – A well-regarded favorite among foodies, Genovese basil is considered the best basil for use in Italian recipes (pesto, tomato-basil sauce, Caprese salad, etc.) Thai basil taste is milder than Genovese basil. "Genovese" basil grows to heights of 24 to 30 inches, with large bright green leaves. ‘Genovese’ is the classic basil for pesto and tomato-based dishes. Its vigorous, large leaves have a sweet, slightly spicy flavor. Availability: In stock. Large, dark green leaves are tender, delicious, and aromatic. Thai Basil. The chances are that you know very well the taste of Genovese Basil. Basil Seeds, Sweet (Genovese), average packet contents : 500 seeds. This is YOUR Date! Aside from the other varieties mentioned below, there are also several different cultivars of this basic, common variety of basil, each with slightly different aromas.Bush or Dwarf basil (O. b. minimum) has a spicy lemon odor aroma and is slightly bitter. You may find yourself looking for Italian basil in the grocery store after discovering a delicious sounding recipe that calls for it. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Please feel free to link to any pages of FoodReference.com from your website.For permission to use any of this content please E-mail: [email protected] All contents are copyright © 1990 - 2020 James T. Ehler and www.FoodReference.com unless otherwise noted.All rights reserved. Italian basil is lovely stuff, especially when making pesto, but it's one of more than 100 basil varieties. Its large, green leaves average 2″ long. Dolce Fresca produces sweet tender leaves that outshone the comparison varieties while maintaining an attractive, compact shape that’s both versatile and beautiful. Genovese Basil. Provide even water throughout development. Is basil the same thing as sweet basil? Genovese basil is from the Genoa area of Italy, the pesto capital of the world. “Italian basil” a general term for the types of basil that may be used in Italian cooking. One of the most sought-after types of basil for culinary use, Genovese is regarded as the definitive basil for classic pesto alla Genovese. Soil & Water: Plant in full sun in well-draining soil. Either one may be used for the preparation of pesto, a common food used in Italian cooking, although many people prefer the taste of Genovese basil for pesto. MA. Moreover, Thai Basil has an extra aroma of licorice with spicy touch in addition to the anise background flavor that shares with the Genovese variety. Only: £0.89: Free Delivery on "Packet Only" Orders, when you spend over £15. Its flavor is slightly sweet and somewhat resembles licorice. This plant loves warm weather, so be sure to wait until all danger of frost has passed before planting. share. Email Save Comment 2. (Dried basil (and most dried herbs) are very different in aroma and flavor then the fresh leaves. Basil goes by many names including sweet basil and Italian or Genovese basil. and as a dried spice and he says neither is what he remembers as sweet basil. print. I've seen them listed as different varieties, but I've also seen Italian Large Leaf described as a Genovese basil. The flavor accounts for the lemon part of lemon basil’s name. Italian Basil – Sweet Basil or Genovese Basil? Use the leaves as you would any Genovese basil and we hear it makes an excellent pesto. My husband swears there’s a difference, I have bought basil fresh at my farmer’s market (the West Side Market in Cleveland OH- it’s awesome!) It offers the familiar notes you would get from basil with a hint of lemony citrus. Cooking and Kitchen Tips and Hints, Measurements, Shopping Advice, Serving Ideas, etc. It’s often used in Italian dishes. You may copy and use portions of this website for non-commercial, personal use only.Any other use of these materials without prior written authorization is not very nice and violates the copyright.Please take the time to request permission. It has a sweet fragrance and is slow to bolt. Basil ‘Sweet Genovese’ is considered to be one of the best varieties of aromatic basil, hailed for its sweet-flavoured leaves and soft texture. Those beautiful, floppy green leaves are a key ingredient in Italian cuisine and the distinctive, main ingredient in Genovese-style pesto, without which there would be … www2.hawaii.edu/~theodore/Images/basil.pdf. I've planted seeds for "Genovese Sweet Basil" and have seen lots of "Italian Large Leaf Basil" at the garden center. Let’s take a look at Thai Basil vs Sweet Basil, examining the unique qualities of each and when you may wish to use one of these popular types of basil over the other. Genovese Basil. The leaves are larger than sweet basil and have a more bushy growth. On the other hand if you prefer a stronger flavour (ideal for either Italian or dishes … Sweet Basil – Genovese. Sweet basil grows 12 to 24 inches high, with smaller leaves 2 to 3 inches long that are a darker green with a hint of purple. Sweet basil blooms white, while "Genovese" produces purple flower stalks. The two names are interchangeable. You can find Genovese Basil seeds online or at your local nursery. In the case of the basil that you’ll commonly find at the store, it … Is basil the same thing as sweet basil? And very aromatic is what he remembers as sweet basil, the most common cultivar, and.. Including sweet basil at home peppery and spicy pinch the blooms to this variety as “ sweet or. Lemony citrus indoors in a large variety of dishes a warm windowsill, and a bit.! Leaf that curls under as the plant gets bigger and eaten in a greenhouse or a... 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