Mint is valued for its refreshing aroma and cooling properties, which is traditionally used to enhance the flavor of drinks, raitas, and chutneys during hot weather. However, one of the main problems with this greenery is that it quickly darkens, wilts, or dries out immediately after being purchased in the store.
If you are concerned about the rapid spoilage of mint, there is a simple and effective method that will allow you to store it for weeks while keeping it fresh, green, and preventing it from rotting.
Before starting storage, you need to separate the mint bunch and detach individual leaves. You should remove all damaged, yellow, or rotten leaves. It is important not to wash the mint before storing it, as moisture promotes very rapid leaf decay.
Storage in an airtight container
Take a clean and completely dry plastic or glass container with a tightly closing lid. Place a dry paper towel at the bottom of this container. Then, arrange the selected dry and fresh mint leaves in an even layer. Place another dry paper towel on top of the leaves so that it can absorb residual moisture or excess air.
Using a bag or cotton cloth method
If you prefer not to use a container, you can wrap the clean and dry mint leaves in a piece of cotton gauze. After that, place this small package in a zip-lock bag and put it in the refrigerator.
After tightly closing the container or zip-lock bag, place it in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator. It is recommended to check the contents every three or four days. If the paper towel becomes slightly damp or soggy, it should be replaced with a new dry towel. Thanks to this simple trick, the mint will remain fresh and green for several weeks.
