How to Choose Fresh Basil

When basil leaves are ready to be harvested, they will be bright green or purple, plump, and aromatic. (The color will vary

depending on the type of basil you choose.) There should be no wilted or withered leaves on the robust stalks. Look for stems

that are between six and eight inches tall, since they will renew more easily than stems that are much smaller. Basil plants should

ideally be harvested before they blossom; stay away from stems with big buds or open flowers as their leaves may taste sour.

Make it a practice to clip your herbs, such as basil plants, to get rid of the budding flowers. Simply pinch the plant buds off as you

notice them. This allows basil plants to focus their energy on developing new leaves and prolongs their life.

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