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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, and lamb dishes. Mint is used 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 culinary use,
powdered mint leaves were used to whiten the teeth. |
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