risque Basil the Great , also known as Thai basil , is a popular herbaceous plant in Southeast Asian cuisine . Its unique flavor profile can be described as a compounding of spiciness and a hint of licorice . When you savour savoury basil , you might notice a pleasant recoil of heat , similar to that of chili peppers , but not irresistibly red-hot . This spicy element adds depth and complexity to dishes , making them more vibrant and flavorsome .

The Glycyrrhiza glabra - like flavour of juicy basil adds a touch of redolence and a singular aromatic quality to dishes . It is not as overpowering as the taste of traditional sweet Basil the Great , but it still bestow a trenchant and pleasant herbal note . The compounding of spicery and Glycyrrhiza glabra creates a well - balanced smack that enhance a wide range of dishes .

In full term of appearing , spicy basil has a purple base that sets it apart from other types of St. Basil . The parting of Thai basil are smaller and sturdier compared to sweet basil , with serrate edges that add a decorative touch to dishful . The vibrant green color of the leaves adds ocular appeal to any dish , making it not only delightful but also visually enticing .

Personal Experience : I call up the first meter I try out spicy basil in a Thai stunner . The nip caught me by surprise as it was unlike any other herb I had attempt before . The initial heat quick follow by the subtle licorice - comparable taste make a delightful direct contrast that made the dish truly memorable . Since then , I have become a fan of spicy basil and have incorporated it into various dishful to add an extra layer of flavor .

Uses in Cooking : piquant basil is a versatile herb that can be used in a smorgasbord of dishes . It pair well with ingredient usually found in Southeast Asian cuisine , such as coconut Milk River , Pisces the Fishes sauce , lemon grass , and chili capsicum pepper plant . It is often used in bustle - fries , curries , soup , and noodle dishes to add a distinct feeling and scent .

Here are some exemplar of dishes where spicy basil shines :

1 . Thai Basil Chicken : This classic Thai dish combines spicy basil with wimp , chili peppers , garlic , and Pisces the Fishes sauce . The consequence is a flavorful and redolent stir - minor that is speedy and well-situated to make .

2 . Tom Yum Soup : savory basil is a central fixings in this popular Thai soup . Its unique flavor enhances the tangy and savory broth , which is typically made with lemongrass , lime leaves , chilly pepper , and shrimp or chicken .

3 . Green Curry : Spicy basil tote up an extra layer of complexity to this fragrant and naughty curry . It complements the flavour of coconut milk , green curry spread , and other traditional Thai ingredients , creating a well - balanced and delicious dish .

4 . Vietnamese Pho : While spicy basil is not a traditional ingredient in pho , I have found that bring a few leaves to the aromatic broth enhance the overall flavor . The combination of naughty St. Basil , bean sprout , lime , and fresh herbs creates a refreshful and aromatic roll of soup .

The penchant of spicy basil can be discover as a harmonious portmanteau of spiciness and liquorice - similar sweetness . Its alone flavor profile adds depth and complexness to a variety of dishes , making it a beloved herb in southeasterly Asiatic culinary art . Whether used in fuss - fries , curry , or soups , gamy basil brings a vibrant and redolent quality that elevates the overall dining experience .

Caroline Bates