Whether in a Mojito, chewing gum, or as a soothing tea – mint is the epitome of freshness. This vibrant green herb grows like a weed in many gardens, but in reality, it's a valuable treasure. It cools you down on hot days and soothes your stomach after a meal. Read on to find out why you should pick a leaf more often.
What you should know about mint
Mint is extremely vigorous and robust. Its natural outdoor season runs from May to September. During this time, the leaves are at their most aromatic. There are countless varieties – from classic peppermint to mild spearmint to exotic chocolate or pineapple mint.
A tip for gardeners: Always plant mint in a pot, otherwise, it will take over your entire garden bed in no time!
Nutrients & Effects
The secret of mint lies in its essential oil. It contains menthol, which creates the typical cooling sensation on the tongue. This property cools & invigorates – ideal for summer heat or fatigue.
From a health perspective, it's a real all-rounder: mint has antibacterial properties, helping with oral hygiene. However, it is particularly valued for its ability to soothe the stomach. A tea after a heavy meal noticeably relaxes digestion.
Taste & Texture
Mint is unmistakably aromatic. The taste is fresh, sharp, and cooling. An important note from your overview: Mint has a very intense flavor and therefore is often used sparingly. A few too many leaves can quickly dominate a dish and make it taste "toothpaste-like."
Preparation with kitchen appliances
Mint brings freshness to almost any appliance:
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Blender: Mint is perfect for smoothies! Add a few leaves to your green smoothie or fruit shake. The menthol masks "herbal" notes (e.g., from spinach) and makes the drink wonderfully fresh.
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Ice Cube Maker: A classic for summer parties. Place a beautiful mint leaf in each compartment of your ice cube maker, fill with water, and freeze. These eye-catchers enhance any sparkling water or cocktail both visually and in taste.
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Slow Juicer / Juicer: Mint is difficult to juice on its own but works wonderfully as an accompaniment. Add it together with apples, cucumber, and lemon to the slow juicer. The juice cools & invigorates immediately.
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Air Fryer: Got a bountiful harvest? Gently dry the mint in your air fryer at the lowest temperature. This way, you'll have your own intense peppermint tea all winter long, which tastes much better than store-bought bags.
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Bread Maker: Try something new: a sweet yogurt-mint bread or a cake with finely chopped mint and chocolate chips ("After Eight" style) from the bread maker is an exciting change.
Buying & Storing
Fresh mint should be vibrant green and fragrant. If the leaves are wilting or have black spots, it's no longer fresh.
At home, it's best to place the bunch in a glass of water like flowers. In the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp cloth, it will keep for a few days, but it loses its aroma faster than in a glass of water.
Use in the kitchen
Mint can be sweet and savory:
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Desserts: Indispensable with strawberries, chocolate mousse, or in fruit salad.
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Savory: In Oriental cuisine (e.g., tabbouleh salad) or with lamb dishes.
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Drinks: Hugo, Mojito, or simply as "infused water" with lemon.
Fun Facts
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Mythology: The name comes from the nymph "Minthe." She was adored by the god of the underworld and transformed into an herb by his jealous wife – but no one could take away her captivating scent.
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Mouse Scourge: Mice and spiders supposedly hate the smell of peppermint. A pot in front of the door is said to keep them away.
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Chewing Gum King: Peppermint is the most popular flavor for chewing gum and toothpaste worldwide.
Conclusion
Mint is the fresh kick we all need. It contains menthol, is antibacterial, and soothes the stomach. Although its intense flavor means it should be used sparingly, it is unbeatable, especially in a blender for smoothies – where it fits perfectly – or decoratively in an ice cube maker.
