Mentha herbs or mint

The mint family has more than 600 members and has been esteemed all over the world for thousands of year of its versatility. Today, the two most popular varieties of the mints, peppermint, Mentha piperita and spearmint, Mentha spicata, are grown commercially.

Mint, traditionally regarded as a symbol of hospitality, is said to have been named after Minthe, a nymph in Greek mythology. Pluto the god of the underworld fell in love with her, and his wife Proserpine became so jealous that she transformed her into this scented herb.

Peppermint

Most mints contain respectable amounts of vitamins A and C, plus they are rich in antioxidants. The menthol in mint aids digestion and can even calm intestinal cramps.

The culinary mints such as American apple mint, orange mint, peppermint and spearmint add their delicate flavors to an infinite variety of beverages and foods such as fruit drinks, juleps and other iced beverages,; teas, vinegars and jellies; soups, sauces and vegetables; meats, fish, salads and desserts.

Mint goes well with a range of proteins, including beef, pork, lamb, game, duck and poultry. It can be chopped and incorporated into a stew or used in a side dish, pesto, sauce, or jam to complement the meat.
Mentha herbs or mint

Basil – herb of the mint family

Basil is a leafy herb of the mint family that grown primarily in Egypt and the United States. Most types have shiny, light green leaves and a pungent, slightly sweet aroma.

Its relation to the mint family is obvious, since basil possesses a minty flavor and odor.

The fresh leaves are about 5 cm ling and 2 cm wide. At home, it has become one of the popular herbs on the garden and in the kitchen.

Basil is one of the most widely used herbs for seasoning tomatoes and tomato sauces, basil plays a key role in Mediterranean, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisine.

The favor of basil depends not only on the variety, but on growing conditions and the stage at which it is harvested. It has a rich and spicy, mildly peppery flavor with a trace of mint and clove. For the best flavor use fresh leaves, but frozen and dried leaves are acceptable.

Basil particularly complements the flavor of garlic and olives. It is also pleasing combined with lemon.
Basil – herb of the mint family