The whys and hows of adding mint to your food

If there is one thing that comes to mind when we think about mint; it is it's refreshing, cooling effect. Mint is a clubbed name for many plant species such as the peppermint or spearmint that come under the genus, Mentha. The main function of this whole species is to release a cooling and relaxing effect that soothes the mind and the body. With its increasing popularity over time, mint is becoming one of the most widely used ingredients in any dish or beverage that needs to be lifted in terms of taste and freshness. While we have been using it here in India in our chutneys, tea and lassi, it has also gained popularity in the west and is now being used in salads, mojitos and even desserts.

According to researchers, it has been found that mint can aid the body internally and externally with not just its cooling effect but with a ton of other nutrients that it is rich in. The Indian science of natural medicine has always suggested mint to be one of the finest solutions for stomach problems or bowel movement. Peppermint to be specific is full of antispasmodic effects that help in reducing pain. This may also help in a smoother bowel movement but getting relief from the pain is mostly guaranteed. If boiled in water and consumed on an empty stomach, it can also reduce water retention and bloating effectively. Mint also contains phytonutrients and antioxidant properties that help in relieving stress by reducing cellular damage that is caused by oxidative stress. Among many benefits, immune-boosting is also one of the most useful effects that protect the body from damage caused by scavenging free radicals. Some studies also show that some compounds are inhibiting tumour causing enzymes. Adding mint to our food can give us more benefit than just a refreshing taste and smell. Here are some delicious recipes you can make using mint:

These tikkis are not just full of nutrition but are also loaded with flavours. To start preparing, add ½ cup of dry chana dal in a hot pan and roast it for 5-7 minutes on medium heat. Transfer it to a blender and blend into a smooth powder, once the dal cools down. Now, heat some oil in a pan and add 1 tsp of cumin to it with ½ tsp hing. Let this roast for a few seconds and add 1 tsp of coriander powder, amchoor powder, garam masala and ½ tsp of fennel seeds. Stir well and add boiled and mashed potatoes to it. Once the mixture comes together, 4 tbsps of water, mix and cover it. Now add 2 handfuls of chopped mint and coriander leaves along with the chana dal powder and combine all ingredients. Once the mixture cools down, make small tikkis out of it and fry them in oil on medium heat. You have your Potato, chana dal and mint tikkis ready.

Only good memories are associated with this beautiful drink. Its refreshing taste on a summer day is equivalent to the fresh spring breeze around your face and ears. To prepare Virgin Mojito for 2 people, you would need 500 ml of any clear soda drink, lemon and lime soda work the best. Take 2 tsp sugar and crush it finely if you are using unsweetened soda. If not, move on to the next step and add a handful of mint leaves in your crusher and add 2 tbsp of lemon juice. Crush it until a lemon juice also turns green but remember to not crush it into a paste. Now, take your glasses and fill them up with crushed ice, add the sugar, lemon and mint mix. Pour your soda over it and there you have it!

Mint chutney goes a long way. It is one of the most versatile sauces or dips that you can have in your kitchen. To make mint chutney, take 2 handfuls of coriander leaves and 2 handfuls of mint leaves and wash them properly. Add them to a blender, add 1 chopped onion, 1 inch of ginger, 5-6 garlic cloves, juice of 2 whole lemons, green chillies according to your spice preference, 4 tbsp of water and salt per taste. Blend it into a smooth paste and have this zero-oil mint chutney with you Pakoras, Cheela or even with plain roti or rice. You can also use this as a delicious sandwich spread.

Mint adds a freshness and umami to the dough itself and brings outs a whole different flavour in Pooris. All you have to do is, take 2 cups of wheat flour in a bowl and add 2 tbsp of oil in it along with 1 tsp of salt and 1 tsp of red chilli powder and mix it. Now add either dried or a handful of fresh mint leaves to the flour and knead into a smooth dough. Make small balls out of the dough and roll them out in pooris. Deep fry them in hot oil and serve with aam ka achar and raita!

A refreshing cup of tea is loved by everyone and can be had at any point in the day, especially after a hearty meal. This tea is also known to relieve pain and nausea during pregnancy and is probably one of the easiest teas to make. For one person, boil 1 cup of water and add fresh mint leaves to it. Let it boil for 5 minutes until the mint leaves start releasing their colour into the water. Turn the flame off and add the juice of half a lemon and pour it into a cup. Your Lemon and mint tea is ready.