How to keep basil leaves from turning black? [duplicate]
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What is the best recommendation to keep fresh basil leaves from turning black after having used some of it?
Best Answer
To extend the kitchen life of basil, treat it like cut flowers. Trim the ends, place the sprigs in some water (stems only, keep the leaves above the water line), and keep them in a cool location. It will still have a fairly short shelf life, so the faster you can use it, the better.
Do not refrigerate your basil, with or without trimming the ends; refrigeration causes the leaves to turn black and wilt. If you are not able to use all the basil in a timely manner, consider either keeping a small, living basil plant, or taking the time to chop the basil and freeze it with oil for future cooking use.
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Quick Answer about "How to keep basil leaves from turning black? [duplicate]"
To store pre-packaged basil: Place in a ziploc bag backed with a paper towel to absorb moisture. Zip the top of the bag almost all the way, leaving about an inch unzipped. Beginning at the bottom of the bag, gently press and roll up to gradually squeeze air towards the top and out the hole you left.How do you keep fresh basil from turning black?
Trim the cut ends, put the bunch in a glass, jar, or vase of water that will fit in the fridge, and cover the whole thing, or at least the basil leaves, with a plastic bag. Put the whole in in a refrigerator. Basil kept that way will stay vibrant and green for up to a week.Why do basil leaves turning black after picking?
But there are times when you want to cry for help, as your beautiful basil leaves develop black or brown spots. There are many reasons for these spots, including from exposure to cold weather, bacterial or fungal infections, annoying pests, or even from a nutrient deficiency.Can you use basil leaves that have turned black?
I would not recommend consuming basil that has turned brown/black, especially if it is "slimy" to the touch. Even though a few brown spots are probably safe, it will be bitter and, well, slimy. Throw it away - and consider using some of the storage methods discussed in the link above.More answers regarding how to keep basil leaves from turning black? [duplicate]
Answer 2
To store pre-packaged basil:
Place in a ziploc bag backed with a paper towel to absorb moisture. Zip the top of the bag almost all the way, leaving about an inch unzipped.
Beginning at the bottom of the bag, gently press and roll up to gradually squeeze air towards the top and out the hole you left. Like a toothpaste tube.
Close top, store in the fridge.
This extends the life of cut basil by several days in my experience, it's essentially a jerry-rigged way of vacuum sealing.
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Matteo Badini, monicore, Skitterphoto, Magda Ehlers