Mint can be something that happens when you are the least prepared for it. You might be outside in your garden and suddenly detect a sharp, green odor that you associate with candy or medicine, and you will suddenly realize that you have mint on your hands. Whether you choose to cultivate it or buy it at the store, you will find that the species of herbs that are denoted as mentha, which all share the common name of mint, are quite healthy and tasty when you can add them to your cooking.
Of course, in some regions mint grows so vigorously that it is considered a weed. If you are planning to include mint in your garden, make sure that it is planted where it will not out compete plants that are more fragile - mint can be very aggressive.
Mint plants do quite well in the shade and they prefer cool, moist spots, though some species do just fine in the sun. You will find that a single plant, due to the fact that they are such speedy growers, will provide you with plenty of mint for your household.
Mont leaves can be used either fresh or dried for culinary purposes and is used in many cuisines the world over. Fresh leaves provide the most pronounced flavor, lending a cool sensation and slight sweetness as an aftertaste.
Mint can bring out the savor of meat particularly lamb. Mint is a common herb for mint dishes in the Middle East and in the UK and USA; mint jelly is often served along with lamb dishes.
Mint is also quite popular when it comes to Asian cuisines. Mint is offered in whole leaf form as a side dish to many different soups and noodle dishes, and the leaves can be strewn on top of a good spicy soup. You will find that the mint leaves lend crispness to soups that would otherwise be overly sweet, and they can similarly be used to add a bit of freshness to curries.
Mint is a great herb to have, whether you go out and collect it, grow it in a window box or simply buy it from the store, you will find that once you start using mint as a garnish, that you will see plenty of places that you can add it. Think seriously about the taste of mint and think about what foods can be accentuated by it!
As you already know, mint is a natural for desserts. Try out some of the many different mint varieties available at larger produce markets and farmer’s markets; for example, chocolate mint makes a great addition to a chocolate jell-o mouse. The fresh mint adds a little extra pep and refreshment to this classic dessert. A sprig of mint is also fantastic with lemon jell-o and makes a wonderful garnish to a variety of entrees and desserts.
In addition, on a hot day, there is nothing to compete with a tall glass of iced tea with a sprig of fresh mint added. Release its assertive flavor and cool scent with a light rub of the leaves between your fingers. Mint can add just the right touch to a number of different foods - pick some up today and start trying out some new recipes with this exciting herb!
