Basil salt is a wonderful way to preserve the fresh flavour of basil while adding a unique twist to various dishes. It can be used to season meats, vegetables, pasta, and more.
Basil Salt Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup coarse sea salt or kosher salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Basil:
- Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cool water to remove any dirt or insects.
- Pat the leaves dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Chop the Basil:
- Finely chop the basil leaves using a knife or food processor. If using a food processor, pulse until the basil is well-chopped but not puréed.
- Mix with Salt:
- In a bowl, combine the chopped basil with the coarse sea salt. Mix thoroughly until the basil is evenly distributed throughout the salt.
- Dry the Mixture (optional):
- Spread the basil salt mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Let it air dry for 24 hours or place it in a low oven (around 75°C) for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to dry the mixture and extend its shelf life, but it’s not necessary if you plan to use it soon.
- Spread the basil salt mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Store the Basil Salt:
- Once dried (if you chose to dry it), transfer the basil salt to an airtight container or jar.
- Label it with the date. Store in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Tips
- Usage: Use basil salt to season meats, sprinkle on roasted vegetables, mix into pasta dishes, or use as a finishing salt for salads and soups.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a finer salt, you can process the mixture again after drying or use a mortar and pestle.
Enjoy!