Techniques
Many Shades of Green: Basil Varieties
A relative of mint, basil thrives in hot, dry climates. Though it is predominantly associated with Mediterranean cuisines, the herb is native to India and used the world over in fresh and cooked preparations. There are more than 40 culinary basil varieties ranging in flavor from delicately herbaceous to downright emphatic—these 8 are our favorites. Try experimenting with them to take your pestos, sauces, and salads in different directions.
Genoese Basil
Cinnamon Basil
Spicy Bush Basil
Thai Basil
Opal Basil
African Blue
Mixed Bloom
Lemon Basil
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