Powerfully aromatic, the tonic, aperitif and digestive virtues of mint leaf are legion. They concentrate flavonoids, triterpenes, phenolic acids which help cells fight against oxidation and help reduce inflammation. the provitamin A carotenoid pigments it contains soothe irritations, while their tannins have an astringent and protective action.
But do we know all its varieties with unique flavors?
Here are six of the most popular ones that will impress your guests!
Pineapple mint
The sweet taste of pineapple mint, Mentha suaveolens ‘Variegata’, comes from a tasty blend of pineapple and apple. Its very ornamental apple green leaves are rounded, woolly and spotted with creamy white. This variety of mint is frequently used as an infusion. It is also used in the composition of certain drinks, notably aperitifs, cocktails, liqueurs and syrups. It can be used as an aromatic to accompany a dish, or to add to a green salad, a sauce or a fruit salad. It brings a surprising little touch to all kinds of desserts and ice creams.
Chocolate mint
Chocolate mint, Mentha piperita f. ‘chocolate’, is an interesting variety of mint with a very fresh taste which is part of the same family as peppermint. Its smell of mint chocolate and its mint flavor are reminiscent of the popular little squares of mint chocolate! Used both in infusions and in pastries.
Apple mint
Apple mint, Mentha suaveolens, is a mint with a very pleasant scent of green apple and mint. Its leaves are round, grayish and the lower surfaces are covered with white down. It will happily flavor your fruit salads as well as your desserts and infusions.
Bergamot mint
Mentha citrata ‘Bergamot’ is a variety of peppermint with rounded leaves that give off a scent with citrus notes, and more specifically bergamot. The minty citrus aromas of bergamot mint are very interesting for flavoring your cold drinks. Used from starter to dessert, Mentha citrata leaves go perfectly with raw vegetables, yogurt-based sauces, grilled meats, as well as fruit.
Strawberry mint
Strawberry mint, Mentha spicata “strawberry,” gives off a surprising scent of mint and strawberries. It has smaller leaves than other mints. Strawberry mint can be used in multiple ways like most mints. In the kitchen it can be used in the composition of a tabbouleh, enhances a dish of fresh peas from the garden or a preparation based on zucchini. Strawberry mint is particularly interesting for desserts or cocktails.
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