Spearmint Tea

Spearmint leaves, as a herbal tea, are a popular choice in many cultures. Their bright, refreshing flavours have enticed tea lovers for hundreds of years. Its name comes from the shape of its leaves, which look like spears and are sometimes known as garden mint. Naturally sourced spearmint makes a refreshing, caffeine-free herbal tea. With its deep green leaves and amazing mint aroma, when infused, spearmint produces a wonderful bright green cup that tastes pungent, cool, and refreshing.

Peppermint versus Spearmint

Even though they have similar names, spearmint and peppermint have different tastes that set them apart. Spearmint has a milder freshness than peppermint, which is sharp and intensely cool. It has a more delicate, sweet taste.
Spearmint is often in the spotlight because it is the main ingredient in mouth-watering mojitos. Peppermint, on the other hand, is usually associated with seasonal treats like candy canes and hot chocolate.

The history of spearmint and how it is used.

Spearmint tea has a long history that dates back to ancient times. Spearmint comes from the Mediterranean and is still essential to Middle Eastern food and teas.
In the past, spearmint herbal tea was admired for its ability to heal. The ancient Greeks used it to help digestion, and the Romans used it to make their breath smell better. Even though it was initially used to treat health problems, this herb is still a key ingredient in many refreshing drinks and exciting recipes.

Health Benefits of Spearmint.

Modern scientific research backs up many old ideas about the health benefits of spearmint. Because it has a lot of antioxidants, spearmint is reported to improve overall health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Spearmint is also reported to help with digestion, which is a big plus. If you're having trouble with your stomach, drinking a soothing cup of spearmint herbal tea might help.

Dried spearmint leaves are often used in cooking. Below are a couple of recipes you might like to try:

Moroccan-style Mint Lentil Soup

Ingredients

• 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 can (approx. 400g) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons dried spearmint leaves
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro and lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

• Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water. Set them aside.
• In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
• Add the chopped carrots to the pot and stir until they start to soften.
• Next, add the diced tomatoes, rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, dried spearmint, and ground cumin.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer until the lentils are tender.
• Taste and adjust for salt and pepper.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and accompanied by lemon wedges.

Oven-Baked Minty Lamb Chops

Ingredients

• 8 lamb loin chops
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons dried spearmint leaves
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (approximately 400°F).
• Place the lamb chops in a single layer in a roasting dish.
• Mix the olive oil, dried spearmint, minced garlic, lemon zest, and juice in a small bowl until well mixed.
• Pour this minty mixture over the lamb chops, coating each one thoroughly.
• Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, then place the dish in the preheated oven.
• Bake for about 25–35 minutes, or until the chops are cooked to your preference.
• Remove from the oven, cover with foil, and rest for a few minutes before serving.
  

Try combining spearmint with a China Pinhead Gunpowder Green Tea to make your very own Classic Moroccan Mint Tea! 

If you'd like to learn more about blending ingredients, visit: Quick Guide To Tea Blending Ingredients For Your Tea Blends