Store bought dried mint smells like s&&t. You will only know the difference if you dry your own mint.
If you do not grow your own mint, buy some when it is still fresh and cheap.
Wash and keep only the leaves. After draining, place them on a cotton napkin and leave it for 2 – 3 days to dry, inside the house, never in the sun.
You will know when it is ready when it can be crumbed when you press it with your thumb and forefinger.
When it has dried store in jars with lid.
Dried mint is perfect for flavouring a lot of food but it also lovely as a hot drink, like a cup of tea. Perfect for sore throats and for soothing the stomach.
Ingredients:
I cup of water
1 tablespoon dried mint
sugar (optional)
Directions
Boil water and mint together. Drain in a cup and add sugar.
Another way to preserve mint, is in olive oil.
Fill a clean jar with washed and dried leaves. Cover with olive oil. If you like you can flavour the oil with some peppercorns or any other spice you like. Seal with the lid and store in the cupboard.
Use the preserved leaves in recipes which require mint.
When the leaves are consumed, use the oil to flavour your food or salads.
Tags: hot drink, How to.., Jams and preserves, Mint, Tips-cooking
[...] 2 tablespoons olive oil and preserved mint [...]