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Fresh Mint

Fresh mint is a popular aromatic herb commonly used in culinary creations and beverages, known for its vibrant green leaves and pleasantly refreshing flavor. This versatile herb belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is available in numerous varieties, including spearmint, peppermint, and apple mint, each with distinct characteristics and slightly different tastes. Mint is used in both sweet and savory dishes, adding depth and brightness to smoothies, cocktails, salads, and sauces. In addition to its delightful taste, mint is also prized for its numerous potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and helping to relieve symptoms of cold and allergies.
#78
IN FRESH VEGETABLES
44
CAL / 100G
$3.96
AVG / OZ
fresh mint
68%
CARBS
6%
FAT
26%
PROTEIN
Fresh Mint FAQ
Commonly, when cooking with fresh mint, people struggle with understanding its potency, how and when to add it in a dish, and most importantly - how to balance mint flavor in a dish without letting it overpower other flavors. Mint, being a robust and dominant flavor, can easily overpower other flavors if not used judiciously. A small amount goes a long way and it's best to start with a little and increase as per the taste preference. Mint doesn't require much cooking and it's best added at the end of cooking or used fresh in salads and drinks to retain its freshness. To get the most out of it, always choose fresh, vibrant and unblemished leaves. Bruise it gently between your fingers before using, to release its natural oils for intense flavor. Additionally, it's essential to understand that different types of mints have different potency levels and it's key to get familiar with these nuances. For instance, peppermint is stronger than spearmint and will influence your dish differently.
How do I pick good quality fresh mint?
How can I extract mint oil at home?
How do I add mint to my dish without making it too minty?
What can I do if I added too much mint to my dish?
What's the difference between peppermint and spearmint in cooking?
Can I cook mint?
Can I replace fresh mint with dried mint in recipes?
Why is my mint turning black after cutting?
Can I grow mint at home?
What dishes go well with mint?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does fresh mint expire?
Unopened fresh mint will typically last between 10-14 days in your refrigerator. If directly harvested from a plant, the timeframe could be less. Once the packet of mint has been opened, you'll need to use it within a week. As a common way to prolong its life, many households freeze fresh mint, which can last up to a year in your freezer. Try to de-freeze only the amount you need, because once defrosted, its shelf life is rather short, even when placed back in the fridge.
How do you tell if fresh mint is bad?
Check for any signs of discoloration or if the leaves have turned black or brown. Fresh mint should have a vibrant green color. Wilted or slimy leaves are a clear sign that the mint has gone bad. A rotten or off-smell is another clear indication. If in doubt, it's probably better to toss it out.
Tips for storing fresh mint to extend shelf life
• Always keep fresh mint in the refrigerator. • Before storing, rinse the leaves gently under cold water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. This removes any dirt and helps prolong its freshness. • Wrap the cleaned mint leaves in a lightly damp paper towel and put it inside a ziplock bag. • While freezing, store mint leaves spread out on a baking sheet before moving into a freezer-safe bag. This prevents them from sticking together. • And remember, never keep fresh herbs near ethylene-gas-releasing fruits like apples or bananas. This gas speeds up the decaying process.
EXPIRES WITHIN
8 - 15
DAYS
Health Info
Macros
0g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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