If you’ve ever been to an Italian restaurant, chances are you’ve encountered two popular herbs – lemon basil and basil.
But what’s the difference between these two herbs? If you’ve ever been curious about their flavor, aroma, and color differences, or what they can be used for, then you’re in the right place.
In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at both lemon basil and basil, and exploring all the ways they differ from one another.
So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Lemon basil is a variety of basil that has a distinct lemon flavor and aroma, while regular basil is sweet and savory.
The leaves of lemon basil are smaller and more pointed than regular basil, and the plant is more sensitive to cold.
Lemon basil is often used in fish dishes, poultry, salads, pesto, and other dishes for a citrusy flavor, while regular basil is more commonly used in Italian dishes and sauces.
What is Lemon Basil?
Lemon basil is a variety of the herb Ocimum basilicum, which is more commonly known as simply just basil.
It has a strong citrus flavor and a light yellow-green color.
The flavor of lemon basil is more intense than that of traditional basil, and it has a more intense lemon scent.
This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to add a bright, citrusy note to their dishes.
Lemon basil is a popular choice for Thai and Southeast Asian cooking, as its bright flavor pairs well with the spicy and rich flavors of those cuisines.
It is also often used in salads, sauces, and soups.
Lemon basil is known for its ability to add a subtle, yet flavorful kick to dishes, and is a great way to add a little bit of zest.
What is Basil?
Basil is an aromatic herb belonging to the mint family that is native to the Mediterranean region and tropical regions of Asia.
It has an intense, sweet flavor with notes of anise and licorice.
It’s often used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, adding a unique and flavorful element to dishes like pasta sauces, pestos, and meat rubs.
The leaves are deep green and can be used fresh, dried, or powdered.
Basil also has a pleasant aroma that is often used in essential oils and perfumes.
Flavor Differences
When it comes to flavor, there are some key differences between lemon basil and basil.
Lemon basil has a more intense citrus flavor than traditional basil, while basil has a more subtle, sweet flavor.
This is due to the higher concentration of limonene, an essential oil, in lemon basil, which gives it its distinctive lemon taste.
The citrus aroma of lemon basil is also more intense than that of basil, making it a great choice for dishes that require a more intense flavor.
On the other hand, traditional basil has a mild, sweet flavor that is perfect for adding subtle flavor to dishes without overpowering them.
In terms of culinary use, lemon basil is often used in Thai and Southeast Asian cooking, while basil is more popular in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.
Aroma Differences
When it comes to the differences between lemon basil and basil, the most obvious difference is their aroma.
Lemon basil has a strong citrus scent that is much more intense than traditional basil, while basil has a more subtle, sweet scent.
The lemon scent in lemon basil comes from its essential oils, which are concentrated in the leaves and provide a strong lemon flavor when used in cooking.
The essential oils in basil, on the other hand, are much more subtle and provide a sweet, aromatic flavor.
These essential oils are released when the leaves are crushed or dried, which is why basil is often used as a seasoning in Italian and Mediterranean cooking.
When used in Thai and Southeast Asian dishes, the intense lemon flavor of lemon basil is an important part of the flavor profile.
Color Differences
When it comes to basil, most people immediately think of the deep green color of traditional basil that is so commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean cooking.
However, not all basil is created equal.
Lemon basil is a variety of the same herb, Ocimum basilicum, but has a light yellow-green color and a more intense lemon scent.
This subtle color difference gives lemon basil a unique and distinctive look that sets it apart from traditional basil.
The yellow-green hue of lemon basil is perfect for adding a delicate citrus flavor to Thai and Southeast Asian dishes, while the deep green color of traditional basil adds a classic and timeless flavor to Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
Although the colors may seem subtle, they make a big difference in the taste and appearance of the finished dish.
Uses of Lemon Basil
Lemon basil is a variety of the herb Ocimum basilicum, and it has a strong citrus flavor and a light yellow-green color.
It is often used in Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine, and it gives dishes a bright, tangy flavor that can be quite refreshing.
It is particularly popular in salads, soups, and stir-fries, as well as being used to make pesto and sauces.
It can also be used to make a delicious herbal tea.
Lemon basil has a more intense lemon scent than traditional basil, and it can be used to add a bit of zing to drinks, such as a spritzer or a gin and tonic.
It can also be used to make a refreshing sorbet, and it pairs particularly well with fruits like berries, kiwi, and pineapple.
Uses of Basil
Basil is a popular herb used in many different types of cuisine around the world.
It is most widely known for its use in Italian and Mediterranean dishes, where it is often added to pasta sauces, salads, and other dishes for its pungent, sweet flavor.
It is also used in many Southeast Asian dishes, especially Thai cuisine, where it is often added for its citrusy notes.
In addition to being used in savory dishes, basil can also be used to make drinks, as it is a popular ingredient in many cocktails and mocktails.
Basil can also be used as a garnish in dishes, as its bright green leaves are attractive and can provide a nice contrast to other dishes.
Lastly, basil can be used medicinally in teas or tinctures, as it contains compounds that are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
Final Thoughts
Lemon basil and basil may both be varieties of Ocimum basilicum, but they have some distinct differences.
Lemon basil has a strong citrus flavor, a more intense lemon scent, and a light yellow-green color, while basil has a more subtle, sweet flavor, a lighter aroma, and a deep green color.
The two herbs have different uses as well, with lemon basil being popular in Thai and Southeast Asian cooking and basil being more popular in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.
Now that you know the difference between lemon basil and basil, why not give one a try in your next recipe?