Produce
Holy basil
กะเพรา
Also called gaprao, krapow, tulsi stand-in, Thai holy basil
What it is
A peppery, clove-scented basil. Pad krapow is named for it. Italian basil is a stand-in, not the same plant.
Origin
South and Southeast Asia.
Flavour
Pepper, anise, heat in the leaf.
How to use it
Throw it in at the end of a ripping-hot wok so it bruises, not stews.
Storage
Stems in water, or use the same day.
Can you recognise Holy basil?
Ingredient challengeQuestions about Holy basil
From this ingredient's notes in the catalogue — not a chatbot.
What is Holy basil?
A peppery, clove-scented basil. Pad krapow is named for it. Italian basil is a stand-in, not the same plant.
How do I use Holy basil?
Throw it in at the end of a ripping-hot wok so it bruises, not stews.
How do I store Holy basil?
Stems in water, or use the same day.
What does it taste like?
Pepper, anise, heat in the leaf.
What can replace Holy basil?
Italian basil plus extra chilli (medium for pad krapow). Italian basil is softer and sweeter. Add extra chilli. It is a Tuesday plate, not gaprao.
Nutrition
Per 100g · estimate · USDA FoodData Central averages and equivalent published tables. Values are typical, not lab tests of your shopping bag.
