To achieve maximum flavour is it better to cut or tear basil leaves?
When I add basil to a dish should I tear or cut basil leaves? Does it matter?
Best Answer
Tearing is for artistic effect
Some people will claim tearing does not damage the cell of the plant as much as cutting, a simple look under a basic microscope will show you otherwise. Not sure how this would affect basil in particular. What dish are you preparing?
If you want more basil flavour and smell, cut it more finely, or bruise it (back of knife or rolling pin) to release more oils just before serving
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Is it better to chop or tear basil?
Tearing basil with your hands (as opposed to using a knife) helps slow the process, as tearing tends to keep more of the cell walls intact than cutting does. But either way, the basil will indeed discolor over time, so your best bet would be to make sure that you chop or tear basil immediately before using it.Why shouldnt you cut basil with a knife?
The discoloration of cut basil is a result of oxidation; when you cut basil with a knife, you break through the cell walls, releasing enzymes that cause that dark color and mushy texture. The same thing happens to lettuce when cut too far in advance.Do you chop basil leaves?
apart and keep the plants consistently moist. Basil leaves are quite delicate. Barely bruising the leaf releases the aroma of the essential oils, which quickly begin to dissipate. Therefore, pruning basil leaves with care is a necessity.What basil tea really does to your body
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Answer 2
If you choose to cut basil with a knife, gently rub olive oil all over it before you cut it, this will prevent the leaves from darkening , particularly if you are using it in a salad.
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