We all use some or the other herbs in our food but the main challenge is to keep them fresh for a longer time. Every herb has a different characteristics and thus they need specific approaches to keep them fresh at home.
Apart form Indian hers like coriander, the other kind of herbs we keep using frequently are the Italian herbs - basil, parsley, rosemary etc. With the pandemic still in in full swing, we are now making more meals at home than ordering a takeaway to eat better and fresh foods.
Although certain herbs like parsley and cilantro, can be refrigerated easily to keep them fresh, Basil does not do good in the refrigerator. It will turn moldy and black when kept in fridge. Basil needs warmer, humid conditions to thrive better.
I am going to talk about a method here which will help keep the basil fresh and perky for a few days after you bring it home form the store.
Like everyone keeps saying, treat the basil leaves like a bunch of fresh cut flowers, delicately. So that's what you need to do in this first method. Treat them like flowers
You Will Need
- Fresh Basil Leaves with stem
- Glass jar/ container
- Water
- Plastic Packet
1. Take the unwashed leaves with stems and chop off the ends with a kitchen scissor or knife.
Note: This will help the stems drink up the water
2. Fill a glass jar with water, level should be so that the smallest stem in the bunch can reach the water in the jar. I used a wide mouthed glass here to keep the leaves.
3. Place the bunch and spread it out like a flower, taking care that maximum stem ends are touching the water
 |
| Cut stems submerged in water |
4. Cover this arrangement loosely with a plastic bag. Don't tuck the plastic bag in, as the basil needs air to breath properly.
Note: Covering the basil leaves with a plastic bag will create a greenhouse effect and create the optimum conditions for the basil
5. Keep this away from direct sunlight or strong light. Better store them in a dark and dry place.
6. Keep changing the water every day to keep them perky for around a week
