The best way to store mint is actually not to store it at all! Mint leaves pack the most punch when they’re plucked straight from the plant. But let’s be real—sometimes you harvest a big bunch and can’t use it all at once. To keep those sprigs from going to waste, there are a few easy ways to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Keeping Fresh Mint Handy
Freshly picked mint wilts pretty fast. That’s why it’s best to harvest or buy it right before you plan to use it. If you stick the stems in a glass of water, they’ll stay perky for maybe 2 or 3 days at most. For a longer shelf life, try the fridge method: wrap the sprigs loosely in a damp paper towel and pop them into a sealed plastic container.
Drying Mint for the Long Haul
Mint—especially the classic peppermint—is a superstar for homemade tea. Drying it is a great way to enjoy your garden’s bounty all through the winter. You can dry mint by air-drying it, using your oven, a dehydrator, or even the microwave. For the best flavor and health benefits, keep these tips in mind:
- Harvest just before the plant blooms.
- Pick your mint on a sunny late morning once the dew has evaporated.
- Only use clean, healthy-looking leaves.
Pro Tip:
If your mint leaves have a little dirt on them, try brushing them off with a small pastry brush first. Try to avoid washing them unless you absolutely have to, as water can strip away some of those precious essential oils.
Storing Your Dried Mint
You’ll know your mint is fully dried when the leaves feel “crispy” and crumble easily between your fingers. Once they reach that stage, pack them into an airtight glass jar. Keep the jar in a dark, dry spot, and your mint will stay flavorful for about a year.
Freezing Mint for Maximum Freshness
- Flash-freeze individual leaves on a tray for about 30 minutes.
- Once frozen, toss them into a freezer-safe bag or container.
- This prevents them from clumping together so you can grab just a pinch whenever you need it.
- Alternatively, chop the leaves and put them in an ice cube tray.
- Fill with water and freeze them into handy minty cubes.
Frozen mint stays good for up to 12 months.
Creative Ways to Preserve the Flavor
Mint is incredibly versatile in the kitchen, and some recipes are basically “preservation in disguise.” If you want to get creative, try turning your harvest into mint liqueur, mint jelly, or even candied mint leaves. They’re all delicious ways to make that summer flavor last.
