Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum), also known as great basil or sweet basil, is one of the most commonly used herbs in Swiss cuisine. It is the perfect finishing touch to any tomato-based dish, but is also extremely popular freeze-dried or made into pesto.

It is best to finely chop the leaves of the basil plant before adding them to a dish to help release their essential oils. A whole basil leaf also makes an ideal decorative garnish for a ready-to-serve plate.

Basil should be stored at a temperature of 10 to 20 °C. The temperatures found in a fridge will cause basil to quickly become limp and rotten and to develop brown spots.