Basil: From Ancient Gardens to Your Kitchen
Table of Contents
From Sacred Plant to Everyday Hero
How Basil Likes to Be Grown
Basil in Today's Kitchen
Recipe: Creamy Tomato Soup with Basil
From Sacred Plant to Everyday Hero
Basil’s history is both multifaceted and captivating. The word "basil" comes from the Greek word "basilikon," meaning "royal." In ancient times, basil was considered a sacred plant—it was associated with gods and kings and had a special place in old gardens. In India, basil (specifically Tulsi) holds even deeper significance as a sacred plant in Hinduism.
Basil arrived in Europe during the Middle Ages, spreading from the Middle East through trade routes. People believed for centuries that basil possessed magical powers, and it became an important ingredient in home remedies and protection against evil spirits. However, it was in Italy that basil found its true home, soon becoming an indispensable part of Italian cuisine.
Ocimum basilicum
How to Grow Basil
Basil is like a sun-loving summer guest—it thrives best in warm, bright environments. It prefers rich, well-drained soil, and with hydroponic cultivation, you can offer basil the perfect conditions—plenty of light, stable humidity, and the right nutrients. A tip is to always pick the leaves from the top, helping basil grow bushier and giving you more leaves to enjoy.
Hydroponic cultivation is perfect for those who want a continuous supply of fresh, fragrant leaves without being dependent on the weather. Basil grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times per season, making it a favorite for anyone who loves fresh cooking.
Basil is rich in important nutrients, including vitamin K, vitamin A, and antioxidants. These nutrients help strengthen our immune system by protecting cells from damage and supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms.
Basil in Today's Kitchen
A good basil is characterized by fresh, dark green leaves with an intense aroma. The texture should be soft but not limp, and the leaves should feel firm and healthy when touched.
Today, basil stars in a number of iconic dishes—from pesto alla genovese to the classic Caprese salad. Its combination of sweet and slightly spicy tones makes it the perfect complement to tomatoes, mozzarella, and garlic. But basil isn’t just for Italian cooking. It fits equally well in Thai dishes, adding a refreshing flavor to stir-fries and curries.
One of our favorite dishes is to let basil shine in a simple yet irresistible tomato soup. It’s perfect for chilly autumn evenings, and it’s so easy to make that even a hectic weekday can have a touch of magic.
Delicious Tomato Soup with Basil
Recipe: Creamy Tomato Soup with Basil
Ingredients:
1 can crushed tomatoes (400 g)
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
500 ml vegetable broth
100 ml cream
A large handful of fresh basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Heat the olive oil in a pot and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes.
Blend the soup until smooth with an immersion blender, then add the cream.
Roughly chop the basil and stir it in just before serving. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve the soup with good bread and perhaps a drizzle of extra olive oil on top. The basil truly elevates the flavor, making this soup a warming and flavorful favorite.