Everleaf Thai Towers Basil

Everleaf Thai Towers is a unique variety of Thai basil known for its upright growth and rich, aromatic flavour. This basil is perfect for adding authentic Thai flavour to a wide range of dishes, making it a favourite among chefs and home cooks alike.

Everleaf Thai Towers Basil:

  • Flavour: Everleaf Thai Towers basil features a robust, sweet, and slightly spicy flavour with hints of anise and clove, characteristic of traditional Thai basil. Its aromatic leaves add a depth of flavour to both cooked and raw dishes.
  • Usage: This basil is ideal for Thai and Southeast Asian dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and soups. Leaves are perfect for garnishing dishes, infusing oils, or adding to salads. It’s also excellent for pesto or as a flavour enhancer in marinades and sauces.

How to Use Everleaf Thai Towers Basil:

  • Curries and Stir-Fries: The spicy, anise-flavoured leaves are perfect for adding to traditional Thai curries and stir-fries. Add them during the final stages of cooking to preserve their flavour.
  • Garnishing and Salads: Use fresh leaves to garnish dishes or toss them into salads for an aromatic and slightly spicy touch.
  • Infusions and Pestos: Blend Everleaf Thai Towers basil into pesto or infuse it into oils and vinegar to capture its unique flavour in various culinary applications.

3 Recipes Using Everleaf Thai Towers Basil

1. Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Everleaf Thai Towers basil leaves
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red chili, sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Cooked jasmine rice for serving

Instructions:

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and red chili, sautéing until fragrant.
  2. Add the ground chicken, cooking until browned.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Add the Everleaf Thai Towers basil leaves and cook until wilted.
  5. Serve hot over jasmine rice, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

2. Thai Basil Pesto

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Everleaf Thai Towers basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
  2. Pulse until finely chopped.
  3. With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Use as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a marinade for meats.

3. Thai Basil and Coconut Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Everleaf Thai Towers basil leaves
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 chicken breast, sliced thinly (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, bring the broth to a simmer. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for 2 minutes.
  2. Add the coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, mushrooms, bell pepper, and chicken (if using).
  3. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through, and the vegetables are tender.
  4. Stir in the Everleaf Thai Towers basil leaves just before serving.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves and a squeeze of lime.

These recipes highlight the versatility and rich flavour of Everleaf Thai Towers basil, allowing you to enjoy its aromatic and slightly spicy taste in various delicious dishes. Whether cooking traditional Thai cuisine or experimenting with new flavours, this basil adds an authentic and flavorful touch.