Season: Spring - Fall
Looking for a Specific Herb? Search Our Herb Almanac Below:
|
|
Strawberry Mint (Mentha spicata 'Strawberry') is a perennial herb cultivar known for its distinctive fragrance and flavor. This appealing mint plant features bright green leaves that emit a pleasant, sweet strawberry scent when crushed. It typically grows 12-18 inches tall and prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Strawberry Mint is popular for its culinary applications, adding a fruity twist to traditional mint dishes. The herb can be used in teas, cocktails, desserts, and savory dishes, infusing them with a subtle, sweet strawberry essence that makes it a delightful addition to any recipe, while also serving as an attractive garnish.
|
|
Mature Height 1 Foot |
|
Mature Width 2 Feet |
|
Light Half Sun |
|
High High |
|
|
Uses Strawberry Mint's unique flavor and aroma make it a versatile addition to various culinary applications. Use it in teas or cocktails for a fruity, refreshing beverage with a hint of sweet strawberry. Incorporate it into desserts, such as fruit salads, ice creams, or baked goods, for a subtle, fruity twist. The leaves can also be used in savory dishes like salads or sauces, where the strawberry essence complements other flavors. Strawberry Mint works well as a garnish for both sweet and savory dishes, adding visual appeal and a delightful scent. Its intriguing fragrance also makes it a lovely addition to potpourris or homemade candles.
|
|
|
RECIPES
Strawberry Mint Lemonade
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 6-8 lemons) 1 cup sugar 5 cups water, divided 1/2 cup Strawberry Mint leaves, plus extra for garnish 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Instructions:
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and 1 cup of water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely to create a simple syrup.
Add the Strawberry Mint leaves and strawberries to the saucepan and continue to heat the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the mint and strawberries to infuse the syrup with their flavors.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the Strawberry Mint syrup cool for about 15-20 minutes. After cooling, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove the mint leaves and strawberry pieces.
In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, the remaining 4 cups of water, and the Strawberry Mint-infused syrup. Stir well to mix.
Refrigerate the lemonade for at least an hour to chill thoroughly.
To serve, pour the Strawberry Mint Lemonade over ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh Strawberry Mint and a strawberry slice.
This refreshing Strawberry Mint Lemonade is perfect for warm days and showcases the herb's unique flavor and aroma. Feel free to experiment with other recipes, such as incorporating Strawberry Mint into teas, desserts, or savory dishes.
|
|