Basil is one of the most popular herbs in the world with a long history of use in culinary and medicinal practices. This flavorful herb is highly nutritious and is known to have several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. One great way to harness the benefits of basil is by preparing basil oil. Basil oil can be used in a variety of dishes, especially Italian dishes like pasta and pizza. It can also be used in salads and to marinate chicken, fish, and meat. In this article, we will discuss how to prepare basil oil at home.

Requirements:

– Fresh basil leaves
– Extra-virgin olive oil
– Mortar and pestle/blender
– Glass jar with a lid

Steps:

1. Wash the basil leaves: Wash the basil leaves under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.

2. Dry the basil leaves: Dry the basil leaves using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Make sure the leaves are completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

3. Crush the basil leaves: Using a mortar and pestle or blender, crush the basil leaves until they are finely chopped.

4. Add olive oil: Add extra-virgin olive oil to the crushed basil leaves, preferably one cup of oil to two cups of basil leaves. Stir the mixture well.

5. Blend: If you’re using a blender, you can blend the mixture for a few seconds until the basil leaves are fully blended with the olive oil. It’s important not to blend for too long, as this can turn the oil bitter.

6. Transfer the mixture to the jar: Once the basil leaves are well blended with the olive oil, transfer the mixture to a glass jar with a lid.

7. Leave it to infuse: Place the jar in a sunny spot and leave the mixture to infuse for at least 24 hours.

8. Strain the basil oil: After 24 hours, strain the basil oil through a cheesecloth to remove any solid particles.

9. Store the basil oil: Transfer the strained basil oil to a clean glass jar and store it in a cool, dark place. Basil oil can last for up to six months if stored properly.

Tips:

– Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor and aroma.
– Extra-virgin olive oil is the best oil to use for making basil oil.
– You can add garlic, lemon juice, or red chili flakes to the basil oil for extra flavor.
– Be careful not to overblend the basil leaves as this can turn the oil bitter.

In conclusion, making basil oil at home is an easy and inexpensive way to add flavor and nutrition to your dishes. With these simple steps, you can make fresh, delicious basil oil in no time. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique blends and enjoy the health benefits of basil oil in your diet.

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