Mint

There are many varieties in the mint family including spearmint and peppermint, native to North America, southern Africa, Eurasia and Australia. Throughout history, mint has been used for a multitude of things; in Ancient Athens, the common use of mint was to scent the body — in fact, mint gets its name from Minthe, a Greek mythical nymph who was transformed into the fragrant plant.

One of the most common uses of mint has always been to freshen the breath. Mint has been found in Egyptian tombs from as far back as 1000 BC!

Mint is one of the easiest plants to grow however, due to being an invasive plant it is important that you control it — it is best that you grow it in a plant pot with a bottom. Mint is at its peak between May and September.

Mint Tea Recipe (often used to aid digestion)

Ingredients:

• Fresh mint leaves
• 1 tsp of honey
• Slice of lemon (optional)

Method:

1. Put fresh mint leaves and stalks into a pan of cold water with a spoonful of honey, bring to boil for 10 minutes then leave to steep for 10 minutes.
2. You can also pop a sliced lemon into the water to boil for a different flavour.
3. Keep refrigerated for 3 days. Perfect to drink half-an-hour before you eat to settle your stomach.

Minted Pea Recipe

Ingredients: Frozen peas, 4 sprigs of mint, 1 tbsp of sautéed onion, 1 tbsp mint jelly.

Method: Put all ingredients into a shallow pan and cover with water, bring to boil for 10 mins then drain and serve. The perfect addition for a Sunday roast.

Be sure to tag @GrimscoteManor in photos of your delicious food!