Preserved Basil Recipes

NECTARINE PRESERVES WITH BASIL

Steps:

• Sterilize jars and lids .
• Bring sugar, lemon juice, water, and 1 cup basil to a boil in a 5- to 6-quart heavy pot, stirring, until sugar is dissolved. Simmer over moderately low heat until thick and syrupy, about 25 minutes. Discard basil with a slotted spoon.
• Add nectarines to syrup and bring to a rolling boil over moderately high heat, then boil, uncovered, stirring frequently, 5 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer nectarines with slotted spoon to a sieve set over a bowl to catch juice. Drain nectarines 5 minutes, then add juice from bowl to juice in pot.
• Drain jars upside down on a clean kitchen towel 1 minute, then invert. Divide nectarines among jars with slotted spoon. Tuck a fresh basil sprig into side of each jar.
• Return juice in pot to a rolling boil, skimming off any foam. Continue to boil until juice registers 220 to 224°F on thermometer, 7 to 10 minutes. Gradually add pectin, whisking constantly. Return juice to a rolling boil, then boil, skimming off any foam, 1 minute.
• Ladle juice into jars, leaving 1/4 inch of space at top, then run a thin knife between fruit and jar to eliminate air bubbles.
• Seal, process, and store filled jars , boiling preserves in jars 10 minutes.
• Let preserves stand in jars at least 1 day for flavors to develop.

PRESERVED BASIL

Steps:

• Puree two cups of fresh packed basil leaves in the food processor.
• Slowly add one half cup olive oil until the mixture has the consistency of a smooth paste.
• Pour the puree into plastic ice cube trays.
• It's best to have a special tray just for herbs, because the remaining flavor will then get into your ice cubes.
• Cover with plastic wrap, and freeze until solid.
• Store cubes, double-bagged, in the freezer and add to soups and sauces for an instant flavor boost.
• Herbal pastes and pestos are highly concentrated, so use sparingly.