How to Preserve Peppermint and Spearmint by Drying or Dehydrating

Drying is a simple and effective method for preserving peppermint and spearmint. Dried leaves can be used in teas, culinary dishes, and crafts. To dry mint, follow these steps:

1. Harvest the Mint

- Choose healthy, pesticide-free mint plants that are just beginning to flower. Cut the stems about 6 inches from the base.

-Rinse the mint leaves gently under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Shake off excess water.

-If you want to speed up the drying process, you can blanch the mint leaves by dipping them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. This step helps prevent color loss and preserves nutrients.

2. Arrange the Mint

- Spread the mint leaves in a single layer on a drying rack or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the leaves are not touching each other.

- Place the drying rack in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated location, away from direct sunlight. Good options include a sunny windowsill, covered porch, or dehydrator.

3. Dry the Mint

- Allow the mint leaves to dry completely, which can take several days to a few weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity.

- Check the leaves occasionally and turn them over to ensure even drying.

- The leaves are ready when they are brittle and easily crumble when touched.

4. Store the Dried Mint

- Once the mint leaves are dry, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dry place, away from direct light. Properly dried mint can be stored for up to a year.

When using dried mint, crumble the leaves or grind them into a powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder. Always taste your dried herbs to ensure they have retained their flavor.

Dehydrating Peppermint and Spearmint

Dehydrating is another efficient way to preserve mint. Dehydration involves removing the moisture from the leaves using a dehydrator machine, which speeds up the drying process and ensures consistent results.

To dehydrate mint, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Mint

- Rinse the mint leaves gently under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Shake off excess water.

- If desired, blanch the mint leaves by dipping them in boiling water for about 30 seconds to help preserve color and nutrients. Cool them immediately in ice water.

2. Arrange the Mint

- Spread the mint leaves in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Make sure the leaves are not touching each other.

3. Dehydrate the Mint

- Set the dehydrator to the appropriate temperature (usually between 95°F and 115°F) and turn it on.

- Dehydrate the mint leaves until they are crispy and easily crumble. This can take several hours to a few days, depending on the thickness of the leaves and the dehydrator's temperature.

4. Store the Dehydrated Mint

- Once the mint leaves are completely dehydrated, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dry place, away from direct light. Dehydrated mint can be stored for up to 2 years.

When using dehydrated mint, crush or crumble the leaves and use them in your favorite recipes. Dehydrated mint can be rehydrated by steeping it in hot water for a few minutes.