Dried, cut basil is a convenient and long-lasting alternative to fresh basil. It is obtained by gently drying the leaves, which extends the herb's shelf life but loses some of its intense, fresh flavor. While fresh basil has a sweet, slightly peppery aroma, the dried variety develops a more concentrated, slightly earthier flavor that is less volatile. In cooking, dried basil is often used in dishes that require longer cooking times, as it retains its flavor well, unlike the fresh variety. It is excellent in tomato sauces, soups, stews, marinades, and braised dishes. Because the flavor is less intense, it can be used more liberally. It is often used as part of a spice blend or as a complement to other herbs such as oregano and thyme to add depth to Mediterranean dishes. While it cannot replace the unique, fresh flavor of fresh basil, it is a reliable ingredient for adding a spicy, herbal touch to dishes.