Mint Leaves

Mint Leaves

mint leaves

Mint is a popular herb that can be used fresh or dried in many dishes and infusions.Mint oil is used in toothpaste,gum,candy and beauty products.

The mentha or mint family refers to a group of around 15 to 20 plant species including peppermint and spearmint.
Mint has one of the highest antioxidant capacities of any food.

Nutrients Values:

Nutrients Values
Calories 70
Total Fat 0.9 g
Cholesterol 0mg
Sodium 31mg
Potassium 569mg
Total carbohydrates 15g
Protein 3.8g

Health benefits of mint leaves:
1.Regular use of this herb is very beneficial for asthma patients,as it is a good relaxant and relieves congestion.
2.It is also used to cure problems such as heartburn,nausea,vomiting,morning sickness,stomach upset,diarrhea etc.
3.Mint is a great appetizer or a palate cleanser.The aroma of this herb helps activate the salivary glands in the mouth as well as the glands which secrete the digestive enzymes thereby facilitating digestion.
4.Mint is also very effective in clearing up congestion of the throat,bronchi,lungs etc.
5.Mint oil is a good antiseptic and antipruritic material,the juice obtained from the leaves is an excellent skin cleanser.It soothes the skin and helps cure infections and itchiness.It also helps to relieve the symptoms of acne.
6.It is found that people who frequently use chewing gums,in which the major active ingredient is mint,has higher levels of memory retention and mental alertness thatn those who did not.
7.Mint has germicidal qualities and it quickly freshens the breath.
8.Drinks and foods containing this herb cool you off in hot summers.It is a good relaxant
9.Mint juice is also used to heal and soothe burns..

Side effects of mint leaves:

As such there are no major side effects.Peppermint can cause some side effects including heartburn and allergic reactions including headache,mouth sores.

Fun facts of mint leaves:

1.Mint has been used as a symbolism of hospitality.In ancient Greece,it was rubbed on tables to welcome visitors.
2.Mint has two specific types:peppermint and spearmint.

How to buy and store mint leaves:

1.Look for green colored ;leaves without any dark spots.
2.If dried ,mint has lost its aroma,it means the herb is old.Hence don’t buy such kind of herbs.

Store
1.Fresh mint should be stored in the refrigerator.
2.Wrap the mint in a paper towel and loosely wrap in plastic.
3.You can also store dry mint in an airtight container.

North Indian Dish:

Pudina ( Mint) chutney:

Pudina chutney is one of the popular chutney which be prepared in a a matter of minutes by using fresh mint along with coriander leaves.

Ingredients:

1.2 cups chopped mint leaves
2.1 cup chopped coriander leaves
3.3/4 sliced onions
4.1 tbsp lemon juice
5.1tbsp sugar
6.1tbsp roughly chopped green chillies
7.Salt to taste.

Method:

1.Combine all the ingredients and 1/4 cup of water in a mixer and blend till smooth.
2.Store it in a air tight container ,refrigerate and use as required.

South Indian Dish:
Pudina Puree:

Nutrition Facts:

Nutrients Values
Energy 70 calories
Protein 0.9g
Carbohydrates 6.1g
Fiber 0.1g
Fat 4.7g
Cholesterol 0 mg

Ingredients:
1.1/4 cup mint leaves
2.1/2 tsp cumin seeds
3.2 tsp finely chopped green chillies
4.1/2 tsp lemon juice
5.1/2 tsp sugar
6.Salt to taste
7.1 cup plain flour (maida)
8.1tbsp oil
9.Oil for deep frying.

Method:
1.Combine the mint leaves,cumin leaves,green chillies,lemon juice,sugar,salt and 1 tbsp of water in a mixer and blend into a paste.
2.Transfer the paste into a deep bowl,add the plain f;lour and 1 tbsp of oil and mix well.knead the flour into a stiff dough using enough water.
3.Divide the dough into 14 equal portions and roll out each portion of the dough into a 50 mm (2) diameter circle.
4.Heat the oil in a deep pan and deep fry a few purees at a time on a medium flame until they turn golden brown color from all the sides.
5.Serve immediately.

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