If you’ve ever stood in the herb aisle wondering whether you can substitute Thai basil for regular basil in your recipe, you’re not alone. The Thai basil vs basil debate can be confusing, especially since both herbs look similar at first glance. But when it comes to flavor, use in cooking, and even their appearance, the difference between Thai basil and basil is surprisingly distinct.

In this guide, we’ll explore how Thai basil and sweet basil compare, how to use each in cooking, and why understanding their uniqueness can elevate your culinary creations.

A Quick Overview of Basil Varieties

Basil is one of the most popular herbs in kitchens worldwide. The type most people know is sweet basil, also known as Genovese basil. It’s the star of Italian dishes like pesto, caprese salad, and marinara sauce.

On the other hand, Thai basil is a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine, bringing a bold twist to stir-fries, curries, and noodle dishes. It belongs to the same family as sweet basil but has a spicier, more licorice-like flavor.

Thai Basil vs Basil: Key Differences

Let’s break down the difference between Thai basil and basil in more detail:

Appearance

• Sweet Basil: Broad, bright green leaves with a rounded shape. The stems are usually green and soft.
  
• Thai Basil: Pointy, darker green leaves with a slightly serrated edge. The stems are often purple, adding a pop of color to dishes.
  

Flavor Profile

• Sweet Basil: Mild, slightly sweet, with a peppery note. Great for Mediterranean dishes.
  
• Thai Basil: Stronger flavor, with hints of anise, clove, and a spicy kick. Essential in Thai, Vietnamese, and Laotian recipes.
  

Culinary Uses

• Sweet Basil is ideal for cold dishes and sauces—think pesto, pizza toppings, and infused oils.
  
• Thai Basil stands up better to heat, making it perfect for stir-fries and brothy dishes like pho.
  

Can You Substitute Thai Basil for Basil?

While it’s tempting to swap them out in a pinch, the flavor difference between basil and Thai basil can change your dish’s entire profile. If a recipe calls for sweet basil, using Thai basil will introduce an unexpected spicy licorice-like taste. Sure, this could work in a fusion dish. But for an authentic one? Not really, especially since it can overpower the more delicately-flavored Italian pasta sauce. 

That said, in dishes that welcome complexity—like Thai green curry or even some creative pasta fusions—experimenting with Thai basil vs basil can lead to surprising (and delicious) results.

How to Store and Use Fresh Basil

Whether you’re working with Thai basil or sweet basil, keeping it fresh can be tricky. Basil is a delicate herb, and improper storage can cause it to wilt, turn black, or lose its vibrant flavor quickly. Here’s how to store basil properly—plus a freezer-friendly shortcut that eliminates the hassle.

Storing Fresh Basil

1. Keep it out of the fridge (at first):

• Fresh basil is sensitive to cold and can turn brown in the refrigerator. Instead, trim the stems and place the bunch in a glass of water, just like a bouquet. Leave it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Cover loosely with a plastic bag to retain humidity.

2. Refrigeration (only when necessary):

• If your basil is already cut or you’ve bought a packaged bunch, wrap the leaves gently in a damp paper towel, then place them in a sealed container or plastic bag. Store in the produce drawer, but be aware the leaves might not last more than a few days.

3. Drying or freezing fresh basil:

• While you can air-dry or oven-dry basil, this method often diminishes its flavor. Freezing is a better alternative if you want to preserve its vibrant, fresh taste.

Alternatively: Try Dorot Gardens’ Chopped Basil

If you want to skip the fuss and still enjoy basil year-round, Dorot Gardens’ Chopped Basil is a fantastic solution. Each cube is flash-frozen at peak freshness and contains one teaspoon of chopped basil—perfectly portioned and ready to go.

Why it’s great for storage:

• Stays fresh for months in your freezer
  
• No risk of wilting or spoilage
  
• No prepping—just pop a cube directly into hot or cold dishes
  
• Saves space compared to jars, bags, or herb bundles
  

It’s ideal for busy home cooks who want fresh-tasting herbs on demand without worrying about waste or mess.

Which One Should You Grow at Home?

If you’ve got a sunny window, both Thai basil and sweet basil are easy to grow indoors. Thai basil tends to be more heat-tolerant and pest-resistant, making it a favorite for summer herb gardens. Sweet basil, on the other hand, can be a bit finicky but rewards you with a generous yield if kept happy.

Pro Cooking Tips for Using Each Basil

Here are a few ways to use each herb more effectively in your recipes:

Sweet Basil Tips:

• Add at the end of cooking to preserve flavor.
  
• Pair with tomatoes, mozzarella, and olive oil.
  
• Use in salad dressings and fresh herb oils.

Thai Basil Tips:

• Add during cooking, especially in hot dishes—it holds up well to heat.
  
• Great in coconut milk-based curries.
  
• Use whole leaves as garnish for soups like pho or tom yum.