Authentic Thai Recipe Ingredient: Lemon basil
Lemon basil
แมงลัก (Maenglak; mang lak)
The leaves of Maenglak (lemon basil) are used in certain Thai curries. They are also indispensable with Khanom Jin Nam Ya. The seeds resemble frog's eggs when soaked in water and are used in sweet desserts. The herb is grown primarily in southern Asia for its strong fragrant lemon scent.
In Laos (Lao), as well as in northeastern Thailand, Lemon basil is used extensively in curries, stews, and stir-fried dishes. It is the most commonly used type of basil in Laos. Many Lao stews require the use of Lao basil as no other basil varieties are acceptable as substitutes. The most popular Lao stew called Or Lam uses Lemon basil as a key ingredient.
In Laos (Lao), as well as in northeastern Thailand, Lemon basil is used extensively in curries, stews, and stir-fried dishes. It is the most commonly used type of basil in Laos. Many Lao stews require the use of Lao basil as no other basil varieties are acceptable as substitutes. The most popular Lao stew called Or Lam uses Lemon basil as a key ingredient.