Spring Ingredient Essentials: Mint

Once considered a symbol of hospitality with the Romans, mint is known as the key ingredient for a delicious mojito and the sweet green leaf that flavors our chewing gum. There are more than 15 mint species that do more than make delicious tasting treats. Mint is rich in vitamin C, magnesium, iron, potassium and calcium, which supports the immune system and helps maintain strong, healthy bones. 

How do I pick the best mint?

Mint is a perennial that can be grown almost anywhere. Because of its invasive nature, whether in a garden or on a windowsill, mint should be grown in a contained plot or container. It grows best when provided 6 hours of direct sunlight and a spacious container, however, it will still grow if partially shaded. The soil should be moist and cool, and does not need to be fertilized before planting.

At its peak, mint is bright, lush and fresh, showing no sign of drying. You can harvest mint at any time by cutting at least 2 inches above soil level. Young leaves have a more mild taste, so if you are on the search for a more intense flavor pick mint leaves right before the plant begins to flower. Harvest can be done by piece or by whole plant, though using the whole plant may limit your harvest to twice a season.

What can I make with mint?

The easiest way to use mint is to throw it in a drink. From a scrumptious mojito to a hot tea, mint and drinks mix very well. Outside of the kitchen, add those little green leaves to a hot bath for an incredible aroma and refreshing way to exfoliate your skin. Mint, including peppermint and spearmint, are great for settling upset stomachs, relieve gas and treat bad breath. As for meal time, mint can be added to any dish with a bit of imagination. Candies and tarts and desserts may come to mind first, but mint pairs as incredibly with pork and potatoes as it does with a paleta.

Preparation of mint is simple. Wash, rinse, and dry mint. To increase its shelf life wrap washed and dried mint in a paper towel, put in an airtight food container and refrigerate. This method will keep mint fresh for a few days. For a longer period of time mint can be frozen and thawed out when ready to use. Mint leaves can also be dried by being left out on paper towels for a few days. Dried mint can be stored in an airtight jar, retaining its intense flavor for up to 2 years.

Recipes to try include: Rhubarb Mojito, Tropical Fruit Bean Salad, Guatemalan Caldo de Pollo, Prickly Pear, Orange, and Mint Salad, Cranberry Agave Mint Sorbet, and Chicken Stew with Peas and Mint.