Note: 1= 1 bunch

Basil = King of Herbs

Most closely associated with Mediterranean cooking but also very prevalent in Asian food, the herb basil has a sweet, strong aroma and flavour. There are three main Mediterranean types: sweet, with large green leaves; Greek, with smaller leaves and a peppery undertone; and purple, whose dark leaves have a milder flavour. Asian varieties include lemon basil, which has a citrus note and smaller leaves; Thai, like sweet basil, but stronger; and holy basil, spicy and intense, and unusual in that it's best when cooked, rather than raw.

Pounded in a pestle and mortar or food processer with garlic, pine nuts, parmesan and olive oil to make pesto; added to tomato-based pasta sauces; combined with sliced mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with olive oil for a classic Caprese salad; chopped and beaten into softened butter, then melted over steaks, roast chicken, or crushed boiled new potatoes.

Sourced locally across the Shoalhaven, Far South Coast and a little from farmers in the Illawarra. They are grown under clear skies and fresh air; hot sunny Summers and frosty Winters.

Our farmers use permaculture principles and their sowing, weeding and harvesting is all done by hand, without the use of  chemicals, pesticides or herbicides preferring green manure crops, compost and natural minerals for biological soil balancing.