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Ancient Greco-Roman Culinary Uses of Basil:
Ancient Greco-Roman Culinary Uses of Basil:
This herb was quite controversial in Ancient Greek and Roman culture. Despite a presence of the herb in the Greco-Roman world, "the internal use of basil was condemned by the Ancients" (Tobyn). This concept is related to its medicinal use and the fear of insanity. Although contemporary popular belief made many fear the herb, there is evidence that some consumed basil. Unfortunately, there is only one remaining cookbook from the Ancient Greco-Roman world. Called the De re coquinaria, this cookbook is compiled with recipes from Marcus Gavius Apicius, a gastronome from the late fourth century (D' Andrea).
Ocimum Basilicum. Ancient Herbs
De re coquinaria
The De re coquinaria includes:
- Instructions on preserving foods and herbs
- The Gardener Section
- Legumes Section
- Poultry Section
- Quadrupeds Section
- Seafood Section
Recipe from Apicius
Recipe from Apicius
A recipe for fresh peas seasoned with herbs & wine
"Cook peas and skim broth. Add leeks, coriander, and cumin. Pound pepper, lovage, caraway, dill, and fresh basil, and moisten with liquamen. Blend the herbs with additional liquamen and wine. Add to peas and taste, seasoning further if required. Bring to a boil and serve" (D' Andrea).
Late Medieval/Early Renaissance Uses of Basil:
Late Medieval/Early Renaissance Uses of Basil:
The lack of evidence of basil used in cuisine is explained by the belief that the herb should not be consumed. The correlation between basil and scorpions caused fear of the herb. It was believed that the simple act of smelling the herb could "breed a scorpion in the brain" (Nolte). Suspicion of basil originated from the idea that any herb not capable of growing near rue was of poisonous nature (Milner). Although seemingly difficult to believe in modern day, the scorpion theory can be traced to a physician's records while in Italy. It was believed and witnessed that placing the herb under a stone in a wet area would conjure a scorpion within two days (Jacob). Similarly to the Greco-Roman world, basil consumption was still present.
A Medieval use of basil in cooking was seen in salads, green pickles, and boiled greens (Zajaczkowa). Basil recipes were discovered to be in use as early as the 11th century (Bezzone). Because of the link between ancient Rome and Italy, the culinary use and fear of basil spilled over into the Italian Renaissance.
A page from a late-fourteenth-century manuscript of Forme of Cury filled with recipes
Modern Culinary Uses of Basil:
Modern Culinary Uses of Basil:
Most commonly, basil is used as a fresh ingredient in recipes. Following the completion of the cooked recipe, basil leaves should be softly added to really emphasize the flavors. Known for its uses in Italian cuisine, basil is also quite popular in Indian cuisine. Popular dishes for basil are the following: pesto, tea, tomato soup, pasta and margarita pizzas. Continue down below to find and explore more recipes that include fresh, or cooked basil! Also, check out Gordon Ramsay's "How To" video for learning the proper way of chopping basil.
Recipes
Recipes
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