Peppermint and spearmint are very similar. Both grow agressively here and need to be harvested and divided frequently. Both can be used in many scrumptious recipes. You can see from the picture spearmint tends to be a lighter green while peppermint is darker and the stems are redder. In many recipes spearmint and peppermint are interchangeable.
Peppermint Tea
Equal Parts Peppermint and Water
Harvest peppermint. It can be cut all the way back to the bottom two leaves of each stem. Rinse thoroughly, discarding any damaged or brown leaves. Fill a sauce pan about three fourths full of water. Place over high heat and bring water to a boil. Turn off heat. Do not boil the peppermint.
Add peppermint to the saucepan. The amount of peppermint in this picture looks like it would not fit in the pan, however, once the green leaves touch the hot water, they wilt. As more peppermint is added, it almost looks like the peppermint ‘melts’ into the water. Use a spoon or spatula to press any stray leaves under the steaming water. Cover and let steep at least 10 minutes. Strain into a pitcher or cup or glass.
If you like sugar or honey, by all means add it to the tea. Hot or cold. Peppermint tea is fabulous!
