What Can I Do with My Excess Chocolate Mint Plant?

The abundance of your chocolate mint plant might seem like a problem, but fear not! With a little creativity and some knowledge, you can turn this bounty into a variety of delightful uses. From creating homemade mint tea to crafting delightful gifts and even enjoying its flavors in unexpected dishes, there are many ways to make the most of your mint plant.

Using Mint for Home Remedies and Cooking

Mint is a versatile herb that not only adds a refreshing flavor to your dishes but also offers a range of medicinal benefits. For example, adding fresh mint to your ice cream can create a delightful sorbet or sorbet-like dessert. Megan S is right; mint is particularly enjoyable in tomato-based dishes, whether as a raw garnish or in cooked tomato salads. Its unique flavor can complement the savory notes beautifully.

Making Mint Tea and Sachets

While the use of peppermint is well-documented, all mints share similar properties, making them perfect for brewing tea. Drying some of the mint leaves is an excellent way to prepare for winter. A tin of homemade mint tea, steeped in boiling water, can be a delightful gift for a friend. Just remember to store the dried leaves in a cool, dark place to maintain their freshness.

Creating Gifts and Decorative Items

Another fun way to use your excess mint is to infuse vodka with it. This infused liquor can serve as a unique gift or even a special ingredient for cocktails. Additionally, you can create homemade sachets or potpourri by combining fresh or dried mint with other fragrant materials. These decorative items can be used to fill drawers and add a pleasant aroma to your home.

The Hazards of Excessive Chocolate Mint

While mint in general is quite aggressive and hard to contain, chocolate mint is even less susceptible to spreading. As Karen Tiede pointed out, mint tends to root easily, so if left to its own devices, your yard will soon be filled with an abundance of mint. Unfortunately, this can be a problem if you’re short on space or don’t want extra plants taking over.

One potential solution is to make use of the extra mint you have by turning it into sachets, tea pillows, or other items that can be used around the house. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of mint without having to continuously battle the proliferation of plants. As a fun side note, if the world were to end, it’s often hypothesized that cockroaches, crocodiles, and mint would be among the few species to survive. Such are the tenacious qualities of this herb!

Conclusion

With these creative uses of your excess chocolate mint, there’s no need to stress about having too much of a good thing. Whether you’re enjoying it in your cooking, using it to make unique gifts, or even just giving it away, there are countless ways to make the most of your mint plant. So, go ahead and embrace your abundance, and find joy in the versatility of this delightful herb.

Keywords: Chocolate Mint, Mint Tea, Home Remedies