Basil has similar refreshing flavors like mint, but it also has a peppery sweetness to it. The World of Food and Wine suggests substituting one tablespoon of chopped fresh basil for every one tablespoon of fresh chopped mint if you are making either a sweet or savory dish.
Can you replace mint with basil?
If you need a fresh herb to substitute for mint, then your best option is basil. People commonly use this for providing a similar freshness to food. Keep in mind that basil won’t have the same mint intensity and it will add a sweet, peppery flavor to your food.
What is a substitute for mint?
The Best Mint Substitutes
- Flat Leaf Parsley. Parsley is much more subdued in flavour compared with mint.
- Coriander (Cilantro) Will work in a similar way but just takes the flavours in a different direction.
- Basil.
- Dried Mint.
- Peppermint Tea Leaves.
Is basil a form of mint?
The Lamiaceae family is known as the mint family. However, the largest group of plants in the mint family is actually the delightful Salvias with their brilliantly coloured blooms. Many other commonly known herbs are also found in this family, including basil, sage, thyme and even lavender.
Is basil same as mint?
While basil leaves are quite smooth to touch, mint leaves are hairy (yet soft) and are more textured. Based on the varieties, you’ll come across mentha leaves that are dark to grayish-green, blue, purple, and even light yellow. In terms of size, most leaves are about 6 cm in length and 1.5 cm in width.
Do basil and mint taste the same?
Basil has a sweet and savory taste while mint has a tangy but sweet flavor with a cold aftertaste. Both herbs are perfect for container gardening more especially basil because there are several varieties that take up only minimal space.
Do basil and mint taste good together?
Mint. Since basil is part of the mint family, it makes sense that basil and mint go well together. You can add a combination of the two herbs in any recipe that uses mint such as this Raw Kiwi Tart with Ginger, Mint and Coconut. Mix basil and mint in pesto and vinaigrettes.
Is parsley same as mint?
Differences between Parsley and Peppermint
Parsley has more Vitamin C, Vitamin A RAE, Iron, and Folate, while Peppermint has more Manganese, Copper, Fiber, Vitamin B2, Calcium, and Magnesium. Parsley’s daily need coverage for Vitamin C is 112% higher. Peppermint contains 2 times less Vitamin A RAE than Parsley.
What can you substitute for mint in a mojito?
Swap in Other Fresh Herbs
Don’t have fresh mint but a garden full of other fresh herbs? Thyme, rosemary, basil and tarragon can brighten up the mix of rum and lime just as effectively.
Can you replace mint with sage?
How to substitute: Substitute in equal amounts. One teaspoon of fresh sage = one teaspoon of fresh mint. One fresh sage leaf = one mint leaf.
Where is basil most commonly used?
This popular herb is used in a variety of Mediterranean and Asian dishes, ranging from creamy sauces to light, herbaceous salads and spicy curries. Ingredients that are complimented by the addition of basil include meats like chicken and beef, olive oil, eggs, tomatoes, and herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano.
What does basil taste like?
What does basil taste like? Sweet basil has a fresh flavor, with a finish of black pepper and subtle anise and mint notes. It’s milder than the Thai variety, which has a strong black licorice flavor.
Are all basil leaves edible?
Are all types of basil leaves edible? Almost every basil variety is grown as a culinary herb. And not just the leaves, the flowers, and stems of the basil are perfectly edible. You can use the flowers to make tea or sprinkle them on your salad and pasta to make them look prettier.
What are the side effects of basil?
Basil contains a chemical, estragole, which has caused liver cancer in laboratory mice. Bleeding disorders: Basil oils and extracts might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders. Low blood pressure: Basil extracts might lower blood pressure.
What can you use mint basil for?
Fall in love with fresh Basil Mint Pesto, with its bright, refreshing complexity of flavors, its versatility, and the quick and easy process of making it! Spread it on sandwiches, toss it with pasta, use it as a base for flatbread pizzas, or serve it with a cheeseboard. There are endless ways to use this vibrant sauce!
What does basil smell like?
Basil comes in all smells, tastes, shapes, and sizes. It is a versatile herb that can take on different characteristics through selective breeding. It is normal for basil to smell like lemon, cinnamon, and licorice. If your basil smells like cat urine, it may be due to the genetics of the basil plant.
Is fresh basil good for you?
Basil is an excellent source of vitamin K and manganese; a very good source of copper, vitamin A (in the form of carotenoids such as beta-carotene), and vitamin C; and a good source of calcium, iron, folate, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids making it quite nutrient rich!
Why does my basil smell like cloves?
Scented clove basil is a thai basil variety which has a smell of cloves and mint. It is a lovely addition to any meal and leaves a lingering smell in your garden. Can be used in jams, jellies and herbals teas. This type of basil is also known as Himalayan basil, Clove basil, and Tree basil.
Why does my sweet basil taste minty?
Because they are closely related. Both basil and mint belong to the Lamiaceae family of aromatic plants. The mint family (Lamiaceae) is known for its aromatic members, especially the mints and balms.
Which is better mint or basil?
Mint is an excellent source of dietary fiber and it has 400% more dietary fiber than basil – basil has 1.6g of dietary fiber per 100 grams and mint has 8g of dietary fiber.
What can I use fresh basil for?
How to Use Basil
- Top whole leaves onto pizza.
- Finish pasta with whole or thinly sliced leaves.
- Blend it into sauces.
- Puree it into soups.
- Chop it up to add to a salad.
- Use it to garnish avocado toast.
- Turn it into an ice cream topping! Jazz up vanilla ice cream with fresh strawberries, basil, and a balsamic reduction.