(Mentha) Mint is a must-have herb for any garden, offering a refreshing aroma and a multitude of uses. From flavoring teas and desserts to adding a zing to savory dishes, mint is incredibly versatile. Growing mint is relatively easy, but it’s important to contain its spread as it can be quite invasive. Plant it in a pot or designated area to keep it from taking over your garden, ensuring you can enjoy its benefits without the hassle.
Harvesting mint is best done in the morning, after the dew has dried, to capture its peak flavor. Simply snip off the stems, leaving a few leaves behind to encourage new growth. You can use the fresh leaves immediately or dry them for later use. Fresh mint leaves release their oil if you use a mortar and pistil, gently bruise the fresh leaves and add to a cup of water, either hot or cold. Let them steep at least 10 to 15 minutes and you will have a nice refreshing drink. You can use the fresh leaves in any culinary recipe you want the flavor of mint. Just add the fresh leaves.
To dry mint, hang the stems upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place until they are brittle. Once dried muddle the plant and get all the leaves off the stems. Store the dried material in a jar, close it tight and put it in a dark cool place. Mint will keep at least 6 months to a year, but over time it will loose its efficacy.
Mint is a digestive and will sooth an upset stomach or gas and bloating. Mint can be used in a variety of ways, from making tea to creating homemade mint sauce for lamb. It’s also a wonderful addition to bath products, offering a soothing and invigorating experience. Explore the many possibilities of mint and let its magic enhance your daily life.
Look under the recipes tab for more way to use mint.
