A CLOSER LOOK
How to recognize it
Fragrant basil; a commonly used Thai-basil form has purple stems and flowers.
In the kitchen
Fried as an aromatic accompaniment to popcorn chicken.
Basil varieties differ; purple stems are a recognition clue, not a guarantee for every plant.
Ask about this ingredient
这道菜里有九層塔吗？
Does this dish contain Thai basil?
A few dishes to explore
These examples use this ingredient in typical or optional preparations. Open the dish to see the distinction; a restaurant’s recipe can differ.
