What is Mint / Pudina ?
Mint powder, also known as Pudina powder or dried mint powder, made from dried mint leaves. Pudina is the Hindi term for mint, and the powder derived from it is commonly used in Indian cuisine and herbal remedies.
Mint powder keeps the distinct flavor and aroma of fresh mint, making it a convenient alternative when fresh mint leaves are not available. It has a refreshing and cooling taste with a slightly sweet and minty flavour.
Besides tempting uses, pudina powder is valued for its potential health benefits. Mint is known for its digestive properties and soothing effects on the stomach. Pudina powder is often used in herbal remedies and Ayurvedic preparations to aid digestion, relieve indigestion, and reduce common digestive issues.
Overall, mint powder is a popular ingredient used to add flavor, aroma, and potential health benefits to various dishes, beverages, and herbal remedies.
Table of Contents
Mint powder Uses :-
Pudina powder is a versatile ingredient used in Indian cooking, particularly in dishes like chutneys, curries, soups, and biryanis and many more…. It adds a distinctive minty freshness to these preparations and enhances the overall taste. It is also used in beverages like mint tea, lemonades, and flavored water for a refreshing twist.
Which season is best to make mint powder ?
Mint is generally available throughout the year, but it is most abundant and fresh during the late spring and summer months. During this time, mint plants grow and produce a highest quantity of fresh leaves. Therefore, the best time to find mint in its best quality and abundance is during the warmer months of late spring and summer.
Mint powder Benefits/Uses at home on our daily basis :-
- Herbal Teas: Mint powder can be infused in hot water to create a soothing and aromatic herbal tea. It is commonly combined with other herbs like green tea or lemon tea for added flavor complexity. Mint tea is known for its calming properties and is enjoyed both hot and cold.
- Homemade Skincare Products: Mint powder can be incorporated into homemade skincare products such as face masks, scrubs etc….. It has cooling and soothing properties that can help refresh and revitalize the skin. Mint powder is often used in products aimed at reducing skin inflammation, acne, or sunburn.
- Aromatherapy: The scent of mint is giving energy and uplifting. Mint powder can be used in aromatherapy by adding it to diffusers, potpourri blends, or homemade scented candles. Inhaling the minty aroma can help promote relaxation, improve focus, and alleviate mental fatigue.
- Oral Care: Mint is a common ingredient in oral care products due to its freshening properties and ability to resist bad breath. Mint powder can be added to homemade toothpaste, mouthwashes, or breath mints for a refreshing and rejuvenate oral care experience.
Homemade Mint Powder step by step :-
- Selecting Fresh Mint Leaves: You can find mint leaves in local grocery stores or even consider growing your own mint plant. You can pluck the leaves from the stems, simply hold the stem firmly near the base and pull the leaves away with your other hand. This is the easiest method to separate leaves from the stems.
- Washing and Drying: Thoroughly wash the mint leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities. After washing, pat them dry gently using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Ensure the leaves are completely dry before proceeding to the next step, as moisture can affect the quality and shelf life of the mint powder.
- Drying Process: STEP 1 (Most important) In this process, a lot of care has to be taken of the temperature.. because here we will neither use sunlight nor microwave… That is because we do not want to give direct heat on the leaves.. If we give direct heat then the quality, aroma and color of the leaves all get affected. I will dry these leaves naturally in 44-45 degree temperature which will take max 2 days. STEP 2 Here we will not use any cloth to dry the leaves but we will use A4 size white sheet… Now we will put two sheets in a clean basket and transfer the leaves into it.. The extra moisture of the leaves was absorbed by the paper, And the basket has to be covered with a big mesh lid so that the dust does not get into it. Now you have to keep this basket in such a place where air conditioner or cooler does not blows wind. For two days only in the air of the fan… By doing this process the flavor, aroma, medicinal properties etc. of mint powder will remain intact.
- Grinding into Powder: Once the mint leaves are fully dried, carefully transfer them to a grinder or a blender designed for grinding spices. Pulse the leaves in short bursts until they turn into a fine powder. For a smoother texture, you can sift the powder through a fine mesh strainer to remove any larger particles.
- Storing the Mint Powder: Store your homemade mint powder in an airtight container (preferably in glass container) placed in a cool, dry, and dark location. This will help to preserve its quality, freshness, color, aroma and flavor for a longer period and extend the shelf life . Properly stored, the mint powder can last more than 1 year. Enjoy its minty, tangy or vibrant taste whenever you needed.
- Creative Uses of Mint Powder: Now you have your homemade mint powder, Use it to flavor beverages like teas, lemonades, or cocktails. Sprinkle a pinch of mint powder over fresh fruits, salads, or yogurt for a refreshing twist. Incorporate it into baked goods, such as cookies, cakes, or muffins, for a delightful minty surprise. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and discover new ways to enjoy the minty goodness.
"To make mint powder, take great care of the temperature.. In this recipe, white sheets have been used.. if you don't have white sheets, you can use cotton cloth... it is also used to dry the leaves... But always keep in mind that never use newspaper in this process... because carbon is used in its print which is toxic to our body".
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