06/14/2026
🌿 Ever wondered why Thai recipes call for specific types of basil? Thai sweet basil, with its smooth leaves and subtle licorice flavor, adds a gentle sweetness to dishes like green curry and spring rolls. Holy basil, on the other hand, offers a spicy, clove-like punch perfect for stir-fries like Pad Kra Pao.
In our Drunken Noodles, we use Thai sweet basil for its fragrance that blends smoothly with the savory sauce, giving the noodles a lighter, aromatic touch. Swap it with holy basil, and the dish takes on a bolder, spicier note that stands up well to high heat.
Choosing the right basil can change your dish's character completely. Next time you order or cook Thai food, notice what basil they use—it makes a difference! 👌
What's your favorite basil flavor in Thai dishes? Let us know below!