Mint adds an extra dimension to dishes. The refreshing taste and cooling effect of mint, does make it an easy to go ingredient with various cuisines. It can be added to any smoothie or dessert to have that extra minty flavour.
While spearmint is primarily used in cooking, peppermint is for those who prefer the stronger menthol-like flavour. Any food lover is happy to know that their favourite delicacy or ingredient has health benefits. Mint definitely deserves a spot in your kitchen garden for the right reasons. It can help with digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. With the goodness of antioxidants, a soothing cup of peppermint tea can help you stay hydrated and warm during dry winter months. Besides, ¼ cup of fresh spearmint can provide half of your daily needs of Vitamin A.
For those of you looking to grow this herb, it is best to cultivate mint either in a large container or a garden bed of its own. The best time to harvest your mint is on a sunny day, mid-morning as the dew is long done by then and the volatile oils and other compounds in the leaves are at their peak. Mint can also be easily stored for using it whenever you feel like adding it to your everyday dishes or drinks to get that sprightly flavour. Here are 3 ways to effectively dry mint for storage and future use:
- Tie mint leaves with stems into bundles and hang upside to air dry
- Place the mint on a paper towel and dry mint quickly in your microwave for 4 minutes on high heat
- Use oven or dehydrator on low heat overnight to dry your mint
Besides the health benefits, mint can also help to cut back on sodium intake. Complementary spices and herbs such as mint can act as a subsidiary for salt without compromising on taste. Mint is my personal favourite as it can make any cuisine one of its own. Which is your favourite herb? Share in the comments section.
A Bite of Fusion 