Storing Mint in the Fridge
To keep your mint fresh for longer, the best option is to store your mint in the fridge. You can store your mint in an airtight container and it will last much longer than if you kept it at room temperature. Place the container in the crisper, which provides slightly more humidity than the rest of the fridge, to keep your mint fresh for up to two weeks. Wash the leaves before use and store the washed leaves in a damp paper towel. If you store mint in the crisper, make sure to use it within a few days.
Storing Mint in a Mason Jar
Another way to store your fresh mint is to use a mason jar. To do this, simply fill your mason jar with water and place the stems of the mint in the water. Make sure the stems are completely submerged in the water. Cover the mouth of the jar with a plastic bag and then store it in the fridge. This method can keep your mint fresh for up to a month. When you’re ready to use it, simply remove the stems from the jar, rinse them off and use them in your recipes.
Storing Mint in the Freezer
Storing mint in the freezer is a great way to keep it fresh for up to six months. To do this, take your mint leaves, wash them and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place the leaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place in the freezer. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer. When you’re ready to use them, simply add them to your recipes. Keep in mind that frozen mint leaves will not have the same flavor and texture as fresh mint.
Storing Mint in the Pantry
If you don’t have the space to store your fresh mint in the fridge or freezer, you can store it in the pantry. To do this, take your mint leaves, wash them and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place the leaves in an airtight container or bag and store in a cool, dry place. This method will keep your mint fresh for up to three days. Keep in mind that this method is not recommended for long-term storage.
Storing Mint in Oil or Vinegar
If you want to preserve your fresh mint for longer than three days, you can store it in oil or vinegar. To do this, take your mint leaves, wash them and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place the leaves in a jar and cover with either oil or vinegar. Make sure all of the leaves are completely submerged in the oil or vinegar. Place the lid on the jar and store in a cool, dark place. This method will keep your mint fresh for up to two months.
Storing Mint in Salt
If you want to preserve your fresh mint for even longer than two months, you can store it in salt. To do this, take your mint leaves, wash them and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place the leaves in a shallow bowl and cover with a layer of salt. Make sure all of the leaves are completely covered in the salt. Cover the bowl with a lid and store in a cool, dark place. This method will keep your mint fresh for up to six months.
The Best Way to Store Fresh Mint
The best way to store fresh mint depends on how long you want to keep it for. For short-term storage, you can store your mint in the fridge or in a mason jar. For long-term storage, you can store your mint in the freezer, pantry, oil or vinegar, or salt. No matter which method you choose, make sure to always wash and dry your mint before storage and use it within the recommended time frame.