I just saw this other post, https://lemmy.world/post/50970674, about cutting the flowers off of a basil plant. I noticed that mine was growing fairly quickly, until the flowers showed up, and now the leaves have stopped getting bigger.
If the plant has already developed flowers, do I still cut them off?
As others have said the flavor and mostly the texture can change after going to flower like this. If you are using you for teas, tinctures or infusion is actually kind of great. The flavor is stronger and more floral. It’s great
Oh, I might try that! I was planning on using it for cooking, but I could use it for something else.
The easiest way is to infuse it in Apple Cider vinegar. Roughly chop the plant (Stems and all) and put in mason jar. Top with apple cider vinegar and let infuse for 4-6 weeks. Strain out the solids and you have basil vinegar. Great on a salad and great in a beverage. Just put a bit with sparkling water, or juice or soda to get a little basil kick.
Awesome I’ll def be trying this with my water kefir, thank you!
It’s delicious. Also it has most of the vitamins, minerals and other plant compounds of the basil. Good way to get more herbs in your life
Heck yeah, maybe some lemongrass in there too… I’ll experiment.
I haven’t done lemongrass but I have done tons of different herbs. I would recommend keeping each one single herb and then mix in a beverage or dish. The flavor intensity can vary a bit