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What to do with extra thai basil is a question many gardeners face when their plants explode with fragrant leaves.
Extra thai basil can be used in dozens of delicious ways, from fresh salads and stir-fries to homemade pesto and infused oils.
If you’ve got extra thai basil sitting in your fridge or garden, you’re in luck because this herb is incredibly versatile and forgiving.
In this post, we’ll explore the best ideas for using extra thai basil, how to preserve it, and creative recipes that go beyond the usual garnish.
Let’s dive into all the wonderful ways to make the most of your extra thai basil.
Why You Shouldn’t Let Extra Thai Basil Go to Waste
Extra thai basil is a gift from the garden, and wasting it would be a culinary crime.
Thai basil has a distinct anise-like flavor that’s brighter and spicier than sweet Italian basil, making it a star in Southeast Asian cooking.
When you have extra thai basil, you’re holding a flavor bomb that can transform simple dishes into something exotic and memorable.
Plus, extra thai basil is packed with vitamin K, vitamin A, and antioxidants, so using it up boosts your meals nutritionally too.
The key is to act quickly because extra thai basil wilts fast once harvested.
Here are the best ways to use extra thai basil before it loses its punch.
1. Freeze Extra Thai Basil in Ice Cubes
Freezing extra thai basil is the easiest preservation method for busy cooks.
Simply chop your extra thai basil leaves and stuff them into ice cube trays.
Cover the leaves with olive oil or water and freeze until solid.
These basil cubes can be tossed straight into soups, curries, or sauces for instant flavor.
You can also freeze whole extra thai basil leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag.
This way, you’ll have extra thai basil ready for months, and it will taste almost as fresh as the day you picked it.
2. Make Thai Basil Pesto for a Unique Twist
Your extra thai basil can become a vibrant pesto that’s perfect on pasta, sandwiches, or grilled meats.
Blend extra thai basil leaves with garlic, toasted sesame seeds or peanuts, lime juice, fish sauce or soy sauce, and a neutral oil.
This Thai-inspired pesto is a world away from the Italian classic, but it’s equally addictive.
Use extra thai basil pesto as a marinade for chicken or shrimp, or stir it into rice noodles for a quick weeknight dinner.
Store your pesto in a jar with a thin layer of oil on top to keep it green and fresh for up to a week.
3. Infuse Vinegar or Oil with Extra Thai Basil
Extra thai basil makes a fragrant infusion that elevates salad dressings and drizzles.
Gently bruise a handful of extra thai basil leaves and place them in a clean bottle.
Fill the bottle with white wine vinegar or a light olive oil and let it sit for two weeks.
The result is a subtly spicy, aromatic infusion that’s fantastic on salads or roasted vegetables.
You can also use extra thai basil to infuse honey, which is incredible on grilled fruit or in tea.
This method converts your extra thai basil into a pantry staple you’ll reach for again and again.
Fresh Recipes That Celebrate Extra Thai Basil
Using extra thai basil fresh is the most satisfying way to honor its vibrant flavor.
Here are some easy, crowd-pleasing recipes that put extra thai basil front and center.
1. Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
A classic use for extra thai basil is the famous Thai basil chicken, or pad krapow.
Stir-fry ground chicken or sliced chicken breast with garlic, chilies, and a sauce of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce.
At the very end, toss in a huge handful of extra thai basil leaves and stir until they wilt.
This dish is spicy, savory, and aromatic, and it uses a full cup of extra thai basil in minutes.
Serve it over jasmine rice with a fried egg for a complete meal.
2. Fresh Thai Basil Salad
If your extra thai basil is super fresh, eat it raw in a simple salad.
Toss extra thai basil leaves with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and mint.
Whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, a pinch of sugar, and a sliced chili for a zingy dressing.
Pour the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and you have a refreshing side dish.
Extra thai basil in salads adds a peppery, anise kick that wakes up your taste buds.
3. Thai Basil Limeade or Lemonade
Yes, you can drink your extra thai basil, and you absolutely should.
Muddle a handful of extra thai basil leaves with sugar and lime juice in a glass.
Add ice and sparkling water, then stir until the sugar dissolves.
This Thai basil limeade is ridiculously refreshing on a hot day.
You can also blend extra thai basil into a tropical smoothie with pineapple and coconut milk.
How to Dry Extra Thai Basil for Long-Term Storage
Drying extra thai basil is another smart way to extend its shelf life.
You can air-dry extra thai basil by tying stems together and hanging them in a cool, dark, dry place.
Or use a dehydrator set to low heat for a few hours until the leaves are crispy.
Once dry, crumble the extra thai basil leaves into an airtight jar.
Keep in mind that dried extra thai basil is less punchy than fresh, so you’ll need to use more in recipes.
Still, having dried extra thai basil on hand is perfect for winter soups and stews.
1. Microwave Drying for Speed
If you’re short on time, microwave drying works well for extra thai basil.
Place single leaves between paper towels and microwave on high for 30-second bursts.
Check frequently to avoid burning, and stop when the leaves are brittle.
This method captures more color and flavor than air-drying.
2. Use Dried Thai Basil in Spice Blends
Mix your dried extra thai basil into homemade curry powder or a Thai seasoning blend.
Combine it with ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, garlic powder, and chili flakes.
Rub this blend on chicken or tofu before grilling for a quick flavor boost.
Your dried extra thai basil becomes a secret weapon in your spice rack.
Creative Gifts and Household Uses for Extra Thai Basil
Beyond the kitchen, extra thai basil can be used in thoughtful and unexpected ways.
Make a fragrant bath soak by tying a bunch of extra thai basil into a muslin bag and adding it to warm bathwater.
The essential oils in thai basil are calming and can help ease tension.
You can also create a natural room freshener by simmering extra thai basil stems in water with citrus peels.
And if you have a huge surplus, why not share it?
Bundle extra thai basil into small bouquets wrapped with twine and gift them to neighbors or friends.
They’ll appreciate the generosity, and you’ll feel great about using every last leaf.
So, What to Do With Extra Thai Basil?
So, what to do with extra thai basil starts with recognizing it’s one of the most versatile herbs in your kitchen.
You can freeze extra thai basil in ice cubes, blend it into pesto, infuse oils and vinegars, or use it fresh in stir-fries and salads.
You can dry extra thai basil for pantry storage or turn it into gifts and spa-like treats.
The best answer to what to do with extra thai basil is to experiment and have fun with it.
Don’t let a single leaf go to waste, because extra thai basil rewards creativity with incredible flavor.
So next time your plant overproduces, you’ll know exactly what to do with extra thai basil.
Happy cooking and enjoy every aromatic leaf.