Mint is a vigorous perennial herb known for its rapid growth and abundance in any garden space. Its prolific nature often leads to a surplus harvest, offering a perfect opportunity to explore its uses beyond simple garnishes. Finding diverse ways to preserve and utilize the leaves ensures that none of the refreshing flavor and aromatic properties go to waste. The following practical methods address how to manage this bounty, from immediate culinary integration to long-term storage and even household utility.
Fresh Culinary Uses
The immediate use for a fresh mint harvest is where its menthol-derived compounds provide a cooling sensory effect in many dishes and beverages. Beverages are perhaps the most popular application, ranging from simple infused waters to complex cocktails. A traditional mojito relies on gently muddling spearmint leaves with lime juice and sugar to release the aromatic oils without introducing bitterness. For a non-alcoholic option, fresh mint leaves can be steeped in hot water for a soothing digestive tea or chilled with lemonade for a vibrant summer refresher.
Mint also pairs exceptionally well with various savory components, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Chopped leaves bring a bright contrast to rich meats: they can be mixed into a simple yogurt marinade for lamb before grilling. The herb can be blended into sauces like a fresh chimichurri or pesto, providing a zesty counterpoint to olive oil and garlic. Adding fresh mint to salads that feature watermelon, cucumber, or feta cheese creates a balanced and cooling effect.
The herb’s unique flavor profile also allows it to transition smoothly into the dessert category. One classic combination is mint with chocolate, where the fresh leaves can be steeped in cream to create a natural flavoring for homemade ice cream or ganache. For simpler desserts, a chiffonade of mint can be sprinkled over fresh berries or stone fruit to enhance their sweetness. Gently crushing the leaves before use ensures maximum flavor transfer.
Methods for Long-Term Storage
Managing a significant mint surplus requires efficient preservation techniques to lock in the flavor for later use. Drying is an effective method for creating mint suitable for teas and seasoning, aiming to remove moisture while retaining the essential oils. Air drying involves tying small bundles of mint stems together and hanging them upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area for one to two weeks until the leaves are crumbly. For faster results, a food dehydrator set to a low temperature, around 95°F to 105°F, can dry the leaves in a matter of hours.
Freezing is another excellent option that better retains the vibrant green color and fresh flavor compared to drying. A convenient technique involves chopping the leaves, packing them into ice cube trays, and covering them with water or a neutral-flavored oil like olive oil. Once frozen, these cubes can be transferred to a freezer-safe bag, providing pre-portioned amounts for soups, stews, or sauces. Freezing mint in oil is ideal for savory cooking, preserving the herb’s flavor for up to six months.
Beyond simply freezing or drying, the mint can be transformed into flavorful infusions that extend its shelf life. Making a mint simple syrup involves simmering equal parts sugar and water, then steeping a large handful of fresh mint leaves in the liquid as it cools. This syrup is stable in the refrigerator for several weeks and can be frozen for up to a year, offering an instant flavor boost for drinks. Similarly, infusing the herb into white wine vinegar creates an aromatic liquid perfect for salad dressings or marinades.
Non-Food Household Applications
A substantial harvest of mint can be diverted from the kitchen to the home for its strong aromatic and repellent properties. The intense scent of mint, particularly the high menthol content in peppermint, acts as a natural deterrent for certain household pests. Dried mint leaves or cotton balls soaked in peppermint essential oil can be placed strategically near known entry points to discourage ants and mice from entering the home.
Mint also serves as a simple and pleasant component for natural air freshening and aromatherapy. Dried mint leaves can be sewn into small breathable sachets and placed in drawers, closets, or suitcases to impart a clean, invigorating aroma to clothing and linens. The fresh scent is recognized for its ability to clear the mind and promote a sense of focus.
Another practical non-food use is infusing the herb into cleaning solutions. Mint sprigs can be submerged in white vinegar for a period of two weeks to create a pleasantly scented, all-purpose cleaner. The infusion process masks the harsh odor of the vinegar, resulting in an effective, non-toxic spray for general household surfaces.