Mint, common name for a family of woody or
herbaceous flowering perennial herbs that belong to an order
comprising more than 10,000 species Members of the mint family
include marjoram and oregano, thyme, sage, rosemary, savoury,
basil, peppermint, spearmint, and pennyroyal. Other members of
the family, include lavender and shellflower which are grown as
ornamentals.
Mint has a strong and sweet with a tangy flavor and a
cool after taste. Spearmint and peppermint are both native to Asia.
Peppermint was used by Egyptians, and spearmint is mentioned in the
Bible. Spearmint grew wild in the United States after the 1600s, and
peppermint was cultivated commercially before the Civil War.
Store in cool, dark, dry places. Use mint in salad
dressings, flavored tea, and zesty marinades. Stir into warmed apple or
currant jelly for a quick meat sauce that goes well with a roast lamb.
or dessert topping that goes well with chocolate.
Peppermint plays an important part in English, Austrian, Asian
(especially Vietnamese), Turkish, Persian and the North Indian Mughul
Cuisines.
