Basil, dried

Dried basil is the dehydrated leaf of culinary basil, sold as flakes or crumbled leaves. It is used as a seasoning in sauces, soups, dressings and cooked dishes, where its concentrated, herbal aroma differs from the fresher character of the leaves.

The dried leaves are green to brown-green and light, brittle and often irregular in size. Their flavour is typically herbal, sweet and mildly peppery, though drying and storage affect aroma. It is sold loose or as a more finely crushed herb; it is not interchangeable with basil extract or basil oil.