Besobela

[Beso Bela; Ethiopian Sacred Basil; Ocimum sanctum?]

This plant is native to Ethiopia and has important uses in Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisines. It is said to be a variety of Tulsi (South and Southeast Asian "Sacred Basil"). It is usually used dried, in spice mixes, for making Niter kibbeh (spiced clarified butter), Shiro (a thick stew based on chickpea or broad bean powder), in teas, and in other dishes. The photo specimen is dried flower heads (preferred), but some products include or are dried leaves.

Buying:

The photo specimen was purchased on-line for 2021 US $11 / ounce.

Subst:

There is no exact substitute, but some recipes allow dried Thai Purple Basil as reasonably close.