Did You Know?
Unlike Italian basil, Thai basil holds up to heat well — you can actually stir-fry it and it maintains its flavor, making it unique among basil varieties.
Overview
Southeast Asia · summer · herbs
Thai basil has a stronger, more anise-like flavor than Italian basil with glossy dark green leaves, purple stems, and a spicy edge, essential in Thai stir-fries and curries.
Southeast Asia
Origin
summer
Season
Easy
Difficulty
herbs
Category
Flavor Profile
Aniselicoricespicy
Storage Tips
Store upright in a glass of water at room temperature or refrigerate; keeps for about 1 week; can be frozen.
Photo Gallery
How to Cook with Thai Basil
Recipes, pairings, substitutes, and professional tips
Cooking Tips
Add to stir-fries at the end — it can handle quick high heat better than Italian basil; essential in pad kaprow (Thai basil stir-fry).
Best Pairings
fish saucechiligarlicsoy saucecoconut milklime
Substitutes
Italian basil + a few drops of anise extract; or holy basil (closer to Thai basil than Italian basil)
Nutrition & Health Benefits
The nutritional profile and health properties of Thai Basil
Nutrition Highlights
calories
22 kcal per 100g
key_nutrients
Vitamin K, eugenol, vitamin A, antioxidants, iron
Quick Facts
Categoryherbs
OriginSoutheast Asia
Seasonsummer
DifficultyEasy
Health Benefits
Contains eugenol with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties; antioxidant; may help lower blood pressure.
Thai Basil Photos
4 photos showcasing Thai Basil in its many forms
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Thai Basil
herbs
OriginSoutheast Asia
Seasonsummer
DifficultyEasy
Flavor Notes
Aniselicoricespicy
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Pairs Well With
fish saucechiligarlicsoy saucecoconut milklime
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