how do you store fresh basil after you have picked it.?

Question

I have picked fresh basil from a plant and would like to keep it to use in the winter. How would I store the basil for it to be used at a later date.

Answer 1

To preserve fresh basil, wash and thoroughly dry the leaves. Then alternate layers of leaves and layers of coarse salt, using a container that can be tightly sealed. Preserved basil keeps indefinitely on the shelf.

Dried basil can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to six months.

Fresh basil has a more defined flavor and a more fragrant aroma than dried basil.

Note: Basil does not freeze very well.

http://www.pccnaturalmarkets.com/health/Food_Guide/Basil.htm#Buying-Storing

Answer 2

You can let it hang from a string and dry naturally. Then collect the leaves and store in a airtight container or ziploc bag

I also like to clean and chop it Then measure about a tsp of the basil into a small ziploc bag. Seal and put in freezer.

For a quick cooking basil, clean and chop the leaves. Add 1 Tbsp of leaves to 1 Tbsp of olive oil. Put into a ziploc and freeze.

Make pesto.

Flavor vinegars or olive oil with the stems and leaves.

Answer 3

You can dry it, freeze it, put it in water, or root it to make a new plant. Most professionals like to freeze herbs. They have a much better taste than dried. If using in a recipe, One tbsp fresh equals one tsp dried. Basil is my favorite herb except for rosemary. I have over thirty basil plants in six varieties in my gardens now and use them all the time when I cook.

Answer 4

Mince the basil and freeze in ice cube trays. It's not as good as fresh but it works in a pinch. I place my fresh basil in a glass of water or a vase to use within a couple of weeks.Sometimes it sprouts and lasts up to two months.

Answer 5

whilst they are thoroughly dry, i take advantage of slightly Press n Seal laid out on counter, and then lay each and every leaf out one by one, with an area in between each and every leaf. it somewhat is ultimate to place them out in grid type. Then I take yet another piece and place on right and press sheets jointly around each and every sheet. Then only fold sheet to slot in small ziplock bag. you are able to keep in frig or in freezer. whilst mandatory, take sheet and decrease what you like, restore something. Or enable them to thoroughly dry out and weigh down up and place in spice jar, whichever is your determination, clean or dried. desire this helps and works for you, and luxuriate in cooking along with your basil!!

Answer 6

Rinse it off, pat it dry, loosley roll it up in paper towel, zip it up in a zip lock bag and refridgerate.

Answer 7

if you plan on using it the very near future you can can keep it in an open plastic bag in the fridge. you can also hang it to dry.