Season: Spring - Fall
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Licorice Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Licorice'), also known as Anise Basil, is a unique basil variety characterized by its distinct licorice or anise-like flavor and aroma. The plant features narrow, pointed, dark green leaves and produces small, delicate, purple or white flowers. Growing up to 24 inches tall, Licorice Basil thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. This versatile herb is used in both sweet and savory dishes, including teas, desserts, salads, and sauces. Its sweet, subtle licorice taste adds depth to recipes, while its attractive foliage and blooms make it a popular choice for ornamental gardens and container planting.
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Mature Height
3 Feet |
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Mature Width
2 Feet |
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Light
Sun |
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Water
Moderate |
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Uses
Licorice Basil's distinct anise-like flavor lends itself to a variety of culinary applications. Its leaves can be brewed to make a soothing herbal tea or infused in simple syrup for cocktails and other beverages. Its sweetness complements fruit salads, while its unique flavor elevates savory dishes like marinades, dressings, and sauces. Chopped leaves can be incorporated into salads, pasta, or rice dishes, adding an unexpected twist. Licorice Basil also pairs well with seafood, poultry, and grilled vegetables. In addition to its culinary uses, the plant's attractive foliage and flowers make it ideal for ornamental gardens, borders, or container arrangements, where it attracts pollinators.
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RECIPES
Licorice Basil-infused Lemonade
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 6-8 lemons)
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup Licorice Basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
• Ice for serving
Instructions:
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and 1 cup of water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely to create a simple syrup.
Add the Licorice Basil leaves to the saucepan and continue to heat the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the basil to infuse the syrup with its distinct flavor.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the Licorice Basil syrup cool for about 15-20 minutes. After cooling, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove the basil leaves.
In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, the remaining 3 cups of water, and the Licorice Basil-infused syrup. Stir well to mix.
Refrigerate the lemonade for at least an hour to chill thoroughly.
To serve, pour the Licorice Basil Lemonade over ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh Licorice Basil.
This refreshing Licorice Basil-infused Lemonade is perfect for warm days and showcases the herb's unique flavor. Feel free to experiment with other recipes, such as incorporating Licorice Basil into fruit salads, pasta dishes, or as a flavoring for baked goods.
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