Basil Tea
Basil grows almost too well in Houston. If you are looking for a new way to use your basil, try basil tea! It is so refreshing on a hot summer day.
You can make basil tea with any type of basil, or a mixture of several varieties! Different basils will have slightly different flavor profiles.
Favorite varieties for tea
Holy/Tulsi Basil: Not only does this basil have incredible flavor, it is said to have several health benefits including helping with respiratory disorders, stress, anxiety, and depression, aiding in digestive relief and can even help reduce minor pains (like a headache).
Blue Spice Basil: With notes of vanilla and clove, this basil makes a delicious tea.
Purple Basil: Taste is similar to a classic basil, but the purple color is so fun for a glass of tea.
Our garden manager, Katherine, makes basil tea for the team frequently in the summer. Here’s how she does it!
Clean your basil, and fill a pot with water to bring to a boil. Add basil to the pot, reduce to a simmer, cover and let sit for about 15 minutes. Strain into a jar then add honey or agave for some sweetness and lemon for some acid.
We don’t measure the basil, just pack the pot as much as we can. More basil = more flavor. More time steeping = more flavor. Adjust to your preferences!
The tea goes great with fruity juices or lemonade for a twist on an Arnold Palmer.
If you have dried leaves, and want to make a single serving use 2-3 teaspoons and steep for 5 to 6 minutes.
Ready to start growing all the basils right outside your doorstep? We’ll be right over! And the bees will love you!
HELPFUL LINKS
Want to learn to garden? In Monarch Garden Society we help Houston-area gardeners go from confused about growing in our area, missing important planting deadlines, and wasting precious time and money to feeling confident, eating more from their garden, and saving valuable time and resources!
Follow us on Instagram and/or TikTok for daily garden inspiration!
Order your plants and compost for pick up or delivery! Order Now
Wanting a garden of your very own? Want to add more garden beds? We'd love to help you create your dream garden space. Click HERE to start the process.
Need help designing and installing landscaping beds or rethinking your outdoor spaces? We'll be right over. Get started HERE.
Shop Monarch Garden Company for trellises, planters, and more!
Check out our Amazon Storefront for products we love in the garden and other fun items we use to bring the garden to our table!
Want seasonal recipes and ideas for how to make the garden a part of your everyday life? Check out Monarch Living!
Looking for ongoing help taking care of your vegetable garden? Check out what Monarch Garden Company Maintenance has to offer (it's a lot)!
