History:
Genovese Basil, (better known as Italian Basil), is an ancient variety, native to the Genoa region of Italy, and is historically significant for its use in traditional Italian cuisine, particularly pesto alla Genovese. It is a part of a long history of sweet basil that dates back over 4000 years to ancient India, Africa and Asia. Basil was used for culinary, medicinal, and religious purposes in ancient times. It was even used to ward off evil spirits in the Middle Ages in Europe!
Flavor Profile:
Sweet, aromatic, and slightly peppery flavor, somewhat stronger than full-grown basil. It is often described as having hints of citrus, anise, and clove, along with a mild peppery taste and a tender, silky texture.
Uses:
Primarily used in pesto, but it's also a key ingredient in many other Italian dishes like pasta sauces, pizzas, and Caprese salads. Beyond its culinary applications, it can be used to add flavor to infused oils and vinegars, used in cocktails and teas, and even acts as a natural pest repellent.
Nutrition:
In general, the nutrients found in basil microgreens include various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here are some of the nutrients present in basil microgreens:
Vitamin C: Basil microgreens are rich in Vitamin C, which is essential for developing and repairing all body tissues. They contribute to various bodily functions such as collagen production, iron absorption, immunity, wound healing, and maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.
Vitamin K1: They are also a good source of Vitamin K1, primarily involved in blood clotting but also contribute to bone health.
Vitamin E: Basil microgreens contain Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects your cells from oxidative damage.
Beta-Carotene: They’re high in beta-carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A by the body. Good vision, a robust immune system, and good skin and mucous membranes are all necessary for vitamin A.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These two types of carotenoids play an essential role in your eye health.
Polyphenols: Basil microgreens are rich in polyphenols, which are compounds with antioxidant properties. They help to protect your cells against the harmful effects of free radicals.
Minerals: They contain essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
Health Benefits:
Medicinally, basil is used to aid digestion, alleviate coughs and colds, and even reduce stress and anxiety.
In addition, basil may treat general pain and digestive disturbances in many ways, including as an anti-inflammatory agent. It’s an antimicrobial, which can help heal wounds and infections. The active substance in basil, cinammonic acid, may help with circulation, respiration, and blood sugar.
In its microgreen form, basil retains these medicinal properties. It packs an even denser nutritional punch, making it a valuable addition to any diet.
History:
Genovese Basil, (better known as Italian Basil), is an ancient variety, native to the Genoa region of Italy, and is historically significant for its use in traditional Italian cuisine, particularly pesto alla Genovese. It is a part of a long history of sweet basil that dates back over 4000 years to ancient India, Africa and Asia. Basil was used for culinary, medicinal, and religious purposes in ancient times. It was even used to ward off evil spirits in the Middle Ages in Europe!
Flavor Profile:
Sweet, aromatic, and slightly peppery flavor, somewhat stronger than full-grown basil. It is often described as having hints of citrus, anise, and clove, along with a mild peppery taste and a tender, silky texture.
Uses:
Primarily used in pesto, but it's also a key ingredient in many other Italian dishes like pasta sauces, pizzas, and Caprese salads. Beyond its culinary applications, it can be used to add flavor to infused oils and vinegars, used in cocktails and teas, and even acts as a natural pest repellent.
Nutrition:
In general, the nutrients found in basil microgreens include various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here are some of the nutrients present in basil microgreens:
Vitamin C: Basil microgreens are rich in Vitamin C, which is essential for developing and repairing all body tissues. They contribute to various bodily functions such as collagen production, iron absorption, immunity, wound healing, and maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.
Vitamin K1: They are also a good source of Vitamin K1, primarily involved in blood clotting but also contribute to bone health.
Vitamin E: Basil microgreens contain Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects your cells from oxidative damage.
Beta-Carotene: They’re high in beta-carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A by the body. Good vision, a robust immune system, and good skin and mucous membranes are all necessary for vitamin A.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These two types of carotenoids play an essential role in your eye health.
Polyphenols: Basil microgreens are rich in polyphenols, which are compounds with antioxidant properties. They help to protect your cells against the harmful effects of free radicals.
Minerals: They contain essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
Health Benefits:
Medicinally, basil is used to aid digestion, alleviate coughs and colds, and even reduce stress and anxiety.
In addition, basil may treat general pain and digestive disturbances in many ways, including as an anti-inflammatory agent. It’s an antimicrobial, which can help heal wounds and infections. The active substance in basil, cinammonic acid, may help with circulation, respiration, and blood sugar.
In its microgreen form, basil retains these medicinal properties. It packs an even denser nutritional punch, making it a valuable addition to any diet.
