Agricultural Term: Basil

Definition: Basil is a popular herb in the agricultural world, known for its refreshing aroma and versatile culinary uses. It belongs to the mint family and is native to tropical regions of Asia, particularly India. Basil is widely cultivated for its leaves, which are used fresh or dried in various cuisines, as well as for its essential oil.

How to Make Refreshing Basil-Infused Water

Step 1: Gather the Ingredients

To make basil-infused water, you will need the following:

• 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
• 4 cups of water
• Ice cubes (optional)
• Lemon or lime slices (optional)
• Honey or sweetener of your choice (optional)

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Step 2: Prepare the Basil

Wash the basil leaves thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel.

Step 3: Infuse the Water

In a pitcher or large container, add the washed basil leaves to the water. Gently muddle the leaves with a wooden spoon or muddler to release their flavors. Cover the container and let it sit at room temperature for about 1-2 hours to allow the basil to infuse into the water.

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Step 4: Strain and Serve

After the infusion period, strain the water to remove the basil leaves. You can use a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth for this purpose. If desired, add ice cubes, lemon or lime slices, and a sweetener of your choice to enhance the flavor. Stir well and serve the refreshing basil-infused water chilled.

Basil-infused water is a delightful and healthy beverage option, especially during hot summer days. It offers a subtle herbal taste with a hint of sweetness, making it a refreshing alternative to plain water. Enjoy this simple yet invigorating drink!

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Keywords: leaves, refreshing, infused, optional, agricultural, slices, sweetener, choice, remove