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Produce Briefs...
Ramps
The wild ramp, AKA wild leek, botanical name Allium tricoccum, is a flowering perennial plant that grows in clusters. It is a member of the Allium family along with onions and leeks
Calamondin Limes
The Calamondin lime is a cross between a sour, loose skinned mandarin and a kumquat, therefore technically making it an orangequat.
Salanova® Lettuces
Salanova® lettuce is a full-sized variety developed for the baby lettuce market. Botanically these varieties are scientifically known as Lactuca sativa.
Description/Taste
Opal basil leaves are egg-shaped with sparsely toothed edges and a variable purple to burgundy color. The color of the basil intensifies with maturity, although variegated green leaves are considered normal in Opal basil. This hybrid basil variety has a slightly stronger anise flavor than the common green sweet basil, with mild ginger undertones and a potent aroma. Opal basil is considered savory when compared to the standard sweet basil and is used for it flavor and color alike.
Seasons/Availability
Opal basil is available year-round.
Current Facts
Opal basil, botanically known as Ocimum basilicum purpurascens, has two varieties that have been chosen as All-America Selections winners in 1962 and 1987. Opal basil's deep purple color can be used as a food grade dye for both edible and non-edible products.
Nutritional Value
Opal basil has a compound of vitamins and minerals that make it a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory properties. Unique to the Opal basil variety is the addition of anthocyanins, which are currently being extensively research and discovered to be of particular value to human health.
Applications
Opal basil leaves make aromatic infused vinegars and oils. The dark color leaches into the infusing vinegar, leaving it a beautiful shade of burgundy. Make a purple pesto or use the leaves as a garnish for desserts, salads, pizza and pastas. Opal basil can replace green varieties in caprese salads and most other recipes calling for standard sweet basil. This purple basil can be used fresh or dry; it can also be frozen for future use. Opal basil can lend flavor and color to many culinary pairings, including Thai, Vietnamese, and Italian.
Geography/History
Opal basil was first discovered in 1830 by George Bentham a British botanist. Since then, many varietals have been introduced. Purple basil crossbreeds rather easily with other basil cultivars which allows for a great number of varietal changes. The Dark Opal basil variety was developed at the University of Connecticut in 1950. Opal basil is grown both for ornamental and culinary uses; it grows best in the summer heat.
Featured Restaurants
Restaurants currently purchasing this product as an ingredient for their menu.
| Oscars Brewing Company | Temecula CA | 619-695-2422 |
| Lola 55 | San Diego CA | 619-727-9282 |
| Waters Catering | San Diego CA | 619-276-8803 x4 |
| Fairmont Grand Del Mar | San Diego CA | 858-314-1975 |
| Nolita Hall | San Diego CA | 619-618-8820 |
| Dija Mara | Oceanside CA | 760-231-5376 |
| Lodge at Torrey Pines Main | San Diego CA | 858-453-4420 |
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Opal Basil. One
is
easiest, three is harder.Recently Shared
People have shared Opal Basil using the Specialty Produce app for iPhone and Android.
Produce Sharing allows you to share your produce discoveries with your neighbors and the world! Is your market carrying green dragon apples? Is a chef doing things with shaved fennel that are out of this world? Pinpoint your location annonymously through the Specialty Produce App and let others know about unique flavors that are around them.
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Specialty Produce
Specialty Produce
Near San Diego, California, United States1929 Hancock st. San Diego CA 92110 619-295-3172 About 36 days ago, 6/04/20 Sharer's comments : Opal basil are in season at Specialty Produce ! 
Virginia Park Farmer's Market
Fresno evergreen
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 356 days ago, 7/20/19 
Queen Anne Farmers Market
Alvarez Organic Farms
Near Seattle, Washington, United StatesMabton, WA About 386 days ago, 6/20/19 Sharer's comments : A colorful flavor explosion on any caprese salad or in a Thai curry! 
Virginia Park Farmer's Market
Fresno Evergreen
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 454 days ago, 4/13/19 Sharer's comments : Smells wonderful! 
Issaquah Farmers Market
Cascadia Greens
Near NW Sammamish Rd & 11th Ave NW, Washington, United States, Krain 98023 425-444-3047 About 678 days ago, 9/01/18 Sharer's comments : Opal Basil spotted at Issaquah Farmers Market. Lovely! |
