Can You Eat Purple Basil? A Guide to Using This Vibrant Herb

Purple basil is an eye-catching herb with vivid purple leaves and a bold, aromatic flavor. But can you actually eat it? The answer is a definitive yes! Not only is purple basil edible, it’s a versatile ingredient that can add visual appeal and great taste to many dishes.

What Is Purple Basil?

Purple basil belongs to the same species as traditional green sweet basil, Ocimum basilicum. The only difference is it contains higher levels of anthocyanins, the pigments that give its leaves their deep purple color. These naturally occurring compounds are what make other foods like blueberries eggplants, and purple cabbage appear violet or blue as well.

Anthocyanins occur mainly in the outermost cells of the purple basil leaves. This masks the green chlorophyll in the underlying cells. However, purple basil isn’t always intensely colored. The vibrancy can vary depending on genetics, sunlight levels, temperature, and other environmental factors. Lower light results in greener leaves.

There are many different cultivated varieties of purple basil, including Dark Opal, Red Rubin, Purple Ruffles, Purple Osmin, and more. They range from deep burgundy to reddish-purple hues. Some, like the classic Genovese Grande Violetto, have striking two-toned leaves.

Is Purple Basil Safe to Eat?

Absolutely! Purple basil contains no toxins or compounds that make it unsafe for human consumption The purple anthocyanins are completely edible and actually good for you In fact, purple basil offers some great health benefits

• Antioxidants – Anthocyanins are potent antioxidants that can help fight inflammation and cell damage.

• Vitamin C – Boosts collagen production and immune function.

• Vitamin A – Important for eye and skin health.

• Iron – Helps carry oxygen in the blood.

• Other nutrients – Good source of vitamin K, calcium, and more.

So you can feel good about cooking with this colorful herb. The only difference from green basil is the purple pigment, which has no effect on flavor or toxicity.

Does Purple Basil Taste Different?

The taste of purple basil is often described as more pronounced than traditional green sweet basil. It tends toward a spicy, anise-like flavor with hints of clove and mint. The aroma is also more intoxicating.

However, the exact flavor profile can vary somewhat among purple basil varieties. Factors like genetics, growing conditions, and age also play a role. The taste may be more subtle earlier in the season. As with any basil type, smaller younger leaves tend to be milder and less bitter.

In general, purple basil has that characteristic sweet, aromatic basil flavor. But its bolder overtones make it ideal for certain dishes that can handle its more robust nature.

How to Use Purple Basil

This eye-catching herb can be used any way you would regular green basil. Here are some delicious ways to incorporate it:

• Make vivid purple pesto or chimichurri – great as a sauce or drizzled over chicken, fish, pasta, cheese, and vegetables.
• Mix slivered leaves into fresh salads and sandwiches for pops of color.
• Use as a garnish for soups, grains, eggs, meat, pizza, pasta, and more.
• Add to tomato sauces and stir fries at the end.
• Pair with milder herbs like parsley, cilantro, and chives.
• Make herb-infused purple basil olive oil or vinegar.
• Use in herbal bouquets garnis for stocks and stews.
• Stir into dips like white bean dip.
• Make refreshing purple basil lemonade or agua fresca.

When using purple basil raw, adding it at the very end helps retain the most flavor and color vibrancy. Cooking intensifies its bold taste, so start with smaller amounts until you determine the right balance for your preferences.

Growing Purple Basil

It’s easy to grow purple basil yourself from seeds or transplants. Grow it as you would traditional sweet basil. It thrives in full sun and warm weather. For the richest color, aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade washes out the purple tones.

Make sure to plant it in fertile soil and water regularly. Pinch off any flower buds to encourage more leaf growth. Frequent harvesting prompts bushy growth. Bring plants indoors before frost or propagate new ones from cuttings to enjoy this colorful herb all season long.

Where to Buy Purple Basil

Look for purple basil starter plants at your local nursery in spring alongside other herb transplants. Many organic seed companies also carry purple basil seeds you can start indoors. Or try farmer’s markets during the summer and fall to find fresh-picked purple basil bunches.

Popular purple basil varieties like Red Rubin, Purple Ruffles, Dark Opal, and Purple Osmin are widely available. You can also often find Italian heirlooms like the stunning Genovese Grande Violetto. Specialty produce markets may carry other unique cultivars as well.

So don’t be afraid to try out vibrant purple basil! Its eye-catching color and robust flavor make it a fun, fresh addition to many recipes. Use it as you would traditional basil to add some color and spice to your cooking.