Mint
Description
Mint leaves are dried spearmint leaves of the species Mentha spicata. The dark green leaves have a pleasant warm, fresh, aromatic, sweet flavor with a cool aftertaste.
Uses
Use
in teas, beverages, jellies, syrups, ice creams, confections, chutneys,
raitas and lamb dishes, mint is featured in Afghanistani, Egyptian,
Indian, and Mid-Eastern cuisines and spice blends such as chat masola, mint sauce, and green Thai curry.
Origins
Mint is native to Europe and Asia and
was previously grown in convent gardens. Today, mint is commercially
cultivated in the United States and Egypt.
Folklore
Mint
was used by the ancient Assyrians in rituals to their fire god. The
ancient Hebrews scattered mint leaves on the synagogue floor so that
each footstep would produce a fragrant whiff. Spearmint was used by the
ancient Greeks and Romans as a flavoring herb, culinary condiment, and
in perfumes and bath scents. Mint was named by the Greeks after the
mythical character, Menthe. During the Middle Ages, besides in culinary uses, powdered mint leaves were used to whiten the teeth.
Flavor Trend
Americans are discovering that this
herb is much more than just a garnish, breath mint, or star ingredient
in a classic Southern cocktail. Because of its importance in
Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American
cuisines, Americans' consumption of mint has increased 83 percent over
the past two decades. Mint is simultaneously pleasant, warm, fresh and
aromatic, with a cool aftertaste, and is great for balancing spicier
foods. It is also thought to have stress-relieving qualities, making it a
popular ingredient in a variety of essential oils, candles and lotions.
What The Experts Say
Chef
Paul Kahan, of Blackbird and Avec in Chicago, uses mint in a salsa
verde which he serves with crumbled feta as a complement to roasted lamb
with parsley and capers.
Perfect Flavor Partners Include:
basil, bourbon, chile peppers, chocolate, cilantro, citrus, dill, fish sauce, oregano, rum, and soy sauce
Color
Light to dark green
Flavor & Aroma
Fresh, strong, cool
Sensory Profile
Mint has an aromatic, strong, sweet flavor with a cool aftertaste.
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