Spice It Up! by Rupa Sethu

Mint

What Is It?

Mint is an aromatic herb that comes from various species of the mint plant. There are many varieties of mint from sweet mint, that is used most commonly in cooking, to spearmint, peppermint and curly mint. There are newer varieties like orange mint and chocolate mint to keep things interesting! This post talks about the health benefits and and culinary uses of this lovely, fragrant herb.

Where To Find It?

Fresh sweet mint is a common herb found in produce markets around the world. Dried mint leaves are stocked readily in the spice sections of grocery stores. Peppermint oil capsules are found in health stores along with vitamins. Mint is also notoriously easy to grow and comes back perennially. Be careful though since it is like a weed and can take over your flower beds!

Health Benefits

  • Peppermint oil capsules help improve IBS symptoms as well as relieve indigestion.
  • Helps improve brain function.
  • Menthol is a common remedy to help with cold and flu symptoms.
  • Peppermint tea and chewing on mint leaves help reduce bacteria that cause bad breath. That explains minty toothpaste!
  • Mint contains many helpful nutrients like vitamin A and antioxidants.

For further reading, here’s a suggested article from Healthline on the 8 Health Benefits of Mint.

Culinary Uses

Sweet mint as well as spearmint and peppermint have been stars of many recipes across the world. Here are some of the ways to incorporate mint into your diet.

  • Both alcoholic drinks like Mojitos and Mint Juleps, as well as non-alcoholic beverages like sweet mint tea and lemonade use fresh sweet mint to add that lovely fresh herbal flavor!
  • Indian mint chutney is a fragrant accompaniment to anything from samosas to a simple chutney sandwich or even as a flavor bomb in rice dishes like pulao.
  • Peppermint tea is a popular, relaxing, non-caffeinated drink with many health benefits.
  • In the middle east, lamb and mint is a classic combination! Mint goes very well in lamb burgers too.
  • In the summer, watermelon, basil and sweet mint with feta cheese makes a fresh and tasty salad.

Epicurious has a very nice summary on 50 Ways to Cook with Fresh, Fragrant Mint. Enjoy!