If you’ve got a mint plant in your garden, you know that before long, the leaves will be overflowing. What can you do with all those mint leaves? One option is to freeze them. Freezing mint leaves is a great way to preserve their flavor and keep them on hand for later use. Here’s how to do it.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can freeze mint leaves. When they are frozen, their taste and texture will be affected but they will still be usable. They won’t last as long as if they were not frozen, though.
The taste of mint leaves changes when they are frozen. The menthol in the leaves becomes more concentrated and gives a more intense flavor. The texture also changes; the leaves become harder and more brittle. Freezing them is a good way to store them for a short time but it is not as good as fresh leaves.
Can You Freeze Mint Leaves?
Yes, you can freeze mint leaves. When they are frozen, they will be brittle and the taste and texture will be impacted. How long they will last in the freezer depends on how you store them.
How To Freeze Mint Leaves?
Freezing mint leaves is a great way to preserve their flavor and color. To do this, you will need:
1. A freezer2. A bag or container to freeze the leaves in3. Fresh mint leaves4. Olive oil (optional)5. Salt (optional)Here are the steps:
1. Wash the mint leaves and pat them dry:
2. If desired, drizzle olive oil over the leaves and sprinkle with salt:
3. Place the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 2 hours or until solidified:
4.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Mint Leaves
1. When freezing mint leaves, it is important to take some precautions to ensure that they retain their flavor and freshness.
2. One way to do this is by cleaning the leaves and then drying them completely.
3. Once they are dry, you can place them in a freezer bag or container and freeze them for later use.
4. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag or container before sealing it shut.
5. This will help to prevent the mint leaves from freezer burn and keep them fresh tasting for longer periods of time.
How To Thaw Frozen Mint Leaves
To thaw frozen Mint Leaves, you can place them in the refrigerator overnight or use cold water. If using cold water, place the leaves in a bowl and cover with cold water. Change out the water every 30 minutes until the leaves are soft.
How Long Does Mint Leaves Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
Leaves will start to brown and wilt within 2-3 days.
It is safe to consume mint leaves that have been stored at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. After this time, the leaves will start to brown and wilt, and they will not be as fresh tasting. For best results, store mint leaves in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
How Long Does Mint Leaves Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
The freshness of mint leaves depends on the way they are stored. If they are stored in a plastic bag, they will stay fresh for about a week. If they are stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for about two weeks. However, if you freeze them, they will stay fresh for about six months.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Mint Leaves?
Ideas, list:
-Add to iced tea or lemonade
-Include in a fruit salad
-Top off a bowl of yogurt or ice cream
-Muddle with lime and sugar for cocktails or mojitos
-Sprinkle on sandwiches or salads for a burst of flavor
