Homemade Fresh Mint Tea
Fresh Mint tea, a delightful beverage enjoyed worldwide, is not only a delicious treat but also offers numerous health benefits. Whether you prefer it hot or cold, mint tea can be enjoyed year-round. This versatile herb is packed with antioxidants and has been used for centuries in both culinary and medicinal applications.
With over 600 different mint species, each boasting its own unique flavor profile, there’s a mint tea to suit every palate. From the subtle sweetness of spearmint to the invigorating pungency of peppermint, the intensity of the mint flavor can vary greatly depending on the specific species.
Ingredients to make the tea
Only two ingredients are needed to make this fresh and delicious tea: fresh mint leaves and water.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: usually found in farmer’s markets and supermarkets. Sold in plastic containers or in a bunch. You may also have it in your backyard.
- Water: Use room-temperature water and never cold water. Cold or hot water will start to wilt the leaves. You want the water to gradually heat the leaves as it becomes hotter. This way, the oil will gradually release and flavor the water.
How to make tea with Fresh Mint Leaves
To make this refreshing tea, it is simple. An excellent deep saucepan or pot is needed. You can also use a teapot or tea kettle if you prefer.
- First, wash the leaves and stems well. Only chop off the ends of the stems, remove any roots if attached, and remove any dead leaves. You may have to wash the leaves several times to remove any excess dirt attached to the leaves.
- Place the mint leaves into the pot or tea kettle. Depending on the amount of mint leaves, please fill-up the pot with enough water to cover them.
- Bring to a boil. Let the water boil for only 5 – 7 minutes. Turn off the heat and keep covered for another 5 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and enjoy your tea hot or cold. Discard the leaves. Use them as compost.
- Drink the tea unsweetened or sweetened. It is best to use raw sugar or organic sugar to sweeten the tea.
Tips for the Best Fresh Mint Tea:
- Fresh is best. While dried mint can be used, fresh mint leaves will provide the most vibrant flavor.
- Experiment with mint varieties. Different mint varieties have slightly different flavors. Try peppermint, spearmint, or a combination for a unique taste.
- Adjust steeping time and leaf quantity. The longer you steep the tea, and the more leaves you use, the stronger the mint flavor will be. This also depends on the mint species, some are naturally stronger than others.
- Serve chilled. For a refreshing summer drink, serve your mint tea over ice.
Additional Flavor Ideas:
- Add fresh lemon, ginger, or basil for a citrusy, spicy, or herbaceous twist.
- Try cold-brewing for a smooth, less bitter tea that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Other Uses for Mint:
- Mint leaves can add a fresh flavor to salads and lettuce wraps.
- Mint is rich in nutrients and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the stomach and boost immunity. It’s also an excellent remedy for the common cold.
Health Benefits of Mint Leaves
Mint leaves, often used in culinary and medicinal applications, offer a variety of health benefits:
- Digestive Aid: Mint leaves can help soothe digestive issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion. They contain compounds that stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, aiding in digestion.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Mint contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body, including in the digestive tract.
- Antioxidant Rich: Mint leaves are packed with antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Respiratory Benefits: Mint can help alleviate congestion and soothe irritated respiratory passages, making it a popular remedy for coughs and colds.
- Oral Health: Chewing mint leaves or using mint-flavored toothpaste can help freshen breath and promote oral health by reducing bacteria growth.
- Stress Relief: The refreshing aroma of mint can have a calming effect on the mind and body, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
While mint leaves are generally safe for most people, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using mint as a remedy if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Enjoy your homemade fresh mint tea! This simple recipe is a perfect way to cool down and enjoy the flavors of summer.
Sources
- https://www.almanac.com/benefits-of-mint-plant
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/275944
Homemade Fresh Mint Tea
Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh mint leaves regular size bunch that can fit in your hand loosely
- 4 cups water
Instructions
- First, wash the leaves and stems well. Only chop off the ends of the stems, remove any roots if attached, and remove any dead leaves. You may have to wash the leaves several times to remove any excess dirt attached to the leaves.
- Place the min into the pot or tea kettle. Depending on the number of mint leaves, please fill-up the pot with enough water to cover them.
- Bring to a boil. Let the water boil for only 5 – 7 minutes. Turn off the heat and keep covered for another 5 minutes.
- Strains and enjoy hot or cold.
- Drink the tea unsweetened or sweetened. It is best to use raw sugar or organic sugar to sweeten the tea.
Notes
- Depending on the mint leaves species, the tea will be mild or strong in taste and flavor. Adjust the leaves quantity in your tea.
- Enjoy this tea with your dinner or at breakfast time.
- Add fresh lemon, fresh ginger, or basil for more flavor.
- This mint tea is perfect for cold-brewed tea for hot summer days.
- Mint leaves are also excellent with salad. It is also perfect when mixed with spinach when making lettuce wraps.
- Mint is rich in nutrients.
- Mint has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce any inflammation in your stomach.
- It improves body immunity and is an excellent remedy for the common cold.
Nutrition
Please keep in mind that nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary greatly based on the products used.
Nutrition info is automatically generated and provided as a courtesy and as an estimate only.
