Wondering about the differences between holy basil and Thai basil? This guide explains everything, so you’ll never mix them up again.
Just like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves, basil is a staple in Thai cooking, but there are two important types you need to know.
The main differences
Holy basil has a spicy, peppery flavor with clove-like notes. Thai basil tastes sweeter, almost licorice-like. Holy basil leaves are jagged and soft, while Thai basil leaves are smooth with purple stems.
What is holy basil
Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is a fragrant herb with a spicy, clove-like flavor. It’s native to Southeast Asia and widely used in Asian cooking and herbal medicine, especially in India, where it’s known as tulsi.
There are multiple types of holy basil, such as green-stemmed and purple-stemmed varieties. The purple-stemmed variety has a more pungent flavor, while the green-stemmed type is milder. Personally, I prefer the purple one for cooking!
How is it used in cooking?
In the Thai kitchen, holy basil is popular for stir-fries like pad kra pao and fried rice variations like khao pad krapow. You’ll also find it in teas — check out my soothing tulsi tea!
What dishes use holy basil?
Where to buy holy basil leaves?
Fresh holy basil leaves can be hard to find in the West. Look at your local Asian grocery store or market. You might also find it frozen, or you can grow it at home.
What is Thai basil
Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora) is a fragrant herb with smooth leaves and a sweet, slightly licorice-like flavor. It’s native to Southeast Asia and part of the mint family. The leaves are sturdy and often used in savory dishes and herbal remedies.
How is it used in cooking?
Thai basil is very popular in curries and soups. It holds its flavor well in coconut milk-based sauces and brothy dishes, and it’s great raw in fresh spring rolls or salads.
What dishes use Thai basil?
Where to buy Thai basil?
Thai sweet basil is easier to find than holy basil. Look for it in Asian grocery stores or sometimes in the herb section at Western supermarkets.
Learn more about Thai ingredients
Conclusion
In Western countries, people often use Thai basil instead of holy basil because it is easier to find. However, the flavor of both Thai herbs are different, which can really change the taste of traditional dishes!
Holy basil and Thai sweet basil are both used in Thai cooking, but the differences between them (in flavor and aroma) make them not interchangeable (to me).
