Sweet basil is an aromatic plant of the mint family with white flowers which probably originated in India. The leaves have a strong flavour of lemon and jasmine and a warm, spicy smell. It is particularly good with tomatoes. Only use at the last moment, to enhance the flavour. The best variety for general use is probably Genovese, common or sweet basil. Other varieties include bush or Greek, cinnamon, holy or sacred, lemon, lettuce-leaved, liquorice, purple, purple ruffles, red and Thai basil or Horapha.
