How peppermint leaves make your drinks healthy
What's the story
Peppermint leaves, known for their invigorating flavor and calming properties, are a versatile ingredient in many drinks. This article explores five unique ways to incorporate peppermint leaves into your beverages. From classic teas to modern infusions, adding peppermint can transform a regular drink into a refreshing and enjoyable experience. Whether you're looking for a digestive helper or a stress-busting sip, peppermint has you covered.
Tea time
Refreshing peppermint tea
Making a cup of peppermint tea is the easiest way to enjoy this herb. Just infuse five to six fresh peppermint leaves in boiling water for around five minutes. This process releases the essential oils, providing a cup full of flavor and health benefits like aiding digestion and relieving stress.
Lemonade upgrade
Peppermint lemonade twist
Want to jazz up your classic lemonade? Try adding some crushed peppermint leaves for a refreshing twist! Simply combine the juice of two lemons, two tablespoons of sugar, and one cup of water in a pitcher. Toss in a handful of crushed peppermint leaves and let it chill for an hour before serving. The result? A perfect thirst-quencher for those hot summer days.
Smoothie innovation
Minty chocolate smoothie
Turns out, you can create a healthy yet super delicious drink by adding a few peppermint leaves to your chocolate smoothie. Take one banana, two tablespoons of cocoa powder, one cup of milk (dairy or plant-based), and six to eight fresh peppermint leaves. Blend until smooth, and voila, your healthy dessert is ready.
Hydration boost
Peppermint infused water
Steeping water with peppermint leaves is a great way to keep hydrated with a refreshing twist. To make it, simply fill a pitcher with water and add 10 to 12 whole peppermint leaves. For extra zing, toss in a few slices of cucumber or lemon. Letting it sit in the fridge overnight is key - this gives the flavors time to fully infuse for maximum refreshment.
Sweet sensation
Homemade peppermints syrup
This super easy peppermint syrup recipe will add a homemade touch to your drinks and desserts. Bring one cup of water and one cup of sugar to a boil until the sugar dissolves. Add 15-20 fresh peppermint leaves and let them steep as it cools for 30 minutes. Strain out the leaves and store the syrup in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.