Fresh Basil
Fresh basil is a fragrant, leafy green herb known for its sweet and slightly peppery flavor. It is a staple in Mediterranean and Southeast Asian cuisines.
Notes
Choose basil leaves that are vibrant green and free from dark spots or yellowing. Fresh basil is best used immediately for optimal flavor, but can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
Uses
- Caprese salad
- Pesto sauce
- Tomato dishes
- Italian pasta
- Vietnamese pho
- Summer soups
Replacements
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Vanilla Ice Cream
Vanilla ice cream is a beloved classic, known for its smooth, creamy texture and subtle yet rich vanilla flavor. Originating in Europe, it has become a staple in American households and is enjoyed worldwide. The aroma is warm and inviting, with notes of sweet, floral vanilla that can vary depending on whether natural vanilla extract or imitation flavoring is used. Its velvety texture is both tender and slightly resistant, offering a satisfying mouthfeel. In cooking and baking, vanilla ice cream is often used as a base for more complex desserts, melting smoothly into sauces or holding up well when layered into parfaits and sundaes.
Fresh Figs
Fresh figs are the ripe fruit of the Ficus carica tree, a plant native to the Middle East and Western Asia but now cultivated worldwide in warm climates. These fruits are celebrated for their luscious sweetness and unique texture, offering a flavor profile that is both honeyed and subtly floral with a hint of berry tanginess. The flesh of a fresh fig is tender and juicy, with a delicate, almost melting quality that contrasts with its smooth, slightly chewy skin. In cooking, fresh figs behave delicately; they can bruise easily and should be handled gently. They are best used soon after harvesting, as they do not ripen well off the tree. Due to their high sugar content and soft flesh, they are ideal for both fresh consumption and culinary applications where their natural sweetness can shine.
Recipes to try
Roasted Vegetable and Goat Cheese Grain Bowls
Warm, roasted veggies mingle with creamy goat cheese over a bed of nutty grains for a comforting yet vibrant meal.
Pepper Jack Stuffed Meatloaf with Salsa Glaze
A savory meatloaf stuffed with gooey pepper jack cheese and topped with a tangy, zesty salsa glaze that'll have your taste buds doing a happy dance.