Sweet basil

Sweet basil is an aromatic herb highly valued in cooking for its fresh fragrance and slightly sweet, anise-like flavor. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is native to tropical regions of South Asia, although it is now cultivated in many parts of the world, especially in Mediterranean areas.

Its aroma characterizes typical dishes of Italian cuisine, such as pesto, and it is widely used in salads, sauces, and tomato-based recipes. In addition to its distinctive flavor, sweet basil provides antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and is a good source of vitamin K, contributing to improved cardiovascular health and digestion.

In different Hispanic American countries, sweet basil goes by various names depending on the region. Some common synonyms are "purple basil", "fine basil", or simply "basil". However, it is important to distinguish it from other varieties like lemon basil or holy basil, which have different flavors and culinary uses.

Its versatility and fresh aroma make sweet basil an essential ingredient for enhancing fresh dishes, stews, or infusions in both home and professional kitchens.