Homemade Mint Extract: A Simple DIY for Health, Flavor, and Savings

Have you ever wondered if there’s a way to capture the refreshing taste and health benefits of mint right at home? Making mint extract from fresh mint leaves is simpler than you might think, and the result is a homemade extract that can transform recipes, drinks, and even your health routine. Plus, it’s a great way to save money and avoid artificial additives found in store-bought extracts. We’ll walk through the entire process that we use, from harvesting mint leaves to bottling up our own pure, aromatic mint extract. Let’s dive in and discover how this simple project can bring a little more nature into our kitchens!

Health Benefits of Fresh Mint Leaves

Mint isn’t just a delicious herb; it’s packed with benefits that make it a must-have in any kitchen. Fresh mint leaves have been shown to help with:

• Digestive Health: Mint aids digestion, easing issues like bloating and discomfort.
• Respiratory Health: Its refreshing properties can relieve congestion and even soothe sore throats.
• Antioxidant Power: Rich in antioxidants, mint can support overall health and help your body fight off free radicals.

Beyond these benefits, mint has a uniquely cooling sensation that we love in everything from tea to desserts. So, why not turn this amazing herb into a versatile homemade extract?

Why Make Your Own Mint Extract?

Store-bought mint extract is convenient, but it often contains artificial flavors, preservatives, and other additives that take away from the purity of the product. By making our own, we control every ingredient, ensuring there is no unnecessary additives. Plus, using fresh leaves is a great way to save money if you already have a mint plant or garden, and the process itself is simple and rewarding!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mint Extract

1. Harvesting Fresh Mint Leaves

To start, we need a good amount of fresh mint leaves. If you grow mint at home, we recommend harvesting in the morning just before the flowering period when the oils are most potent. Although, you can harvest them at any time and still get a good result. Simply pick the leaves directly from the plant, focusing on mature, green leaves without spots or signs of wilting.

2. Removing Leaves from the Stems

Once we’ve gathered enough leaves, it’s time to separate them from the stems. This step is important because the stems can add a slightly bitter taste. Pull off the leaves gently, discarding any damaged or yellow leaves to keep our extract fresh and flavorful.

3. Preparing the Jars

For our mint extract, pint or quart-size glass jars work best. Be sure to sterilize them thoroughly before use. Simply place the mint leaves into the sterilized jar, we typically use about 3 cups of leaves per one cup of vodka. You can also gently crush the leaves to help better release the oils after the vofka is added. Fill the jar to desired level with leaves to ensure enough space for the vodka to fully cover them.

4. Adding Vodka to the Jar

Now, we add vodka, which acts as the extracting agent. The alcohol will draw out the oils from the mint leaves, capturing their flavor and scent. Pour the vodka slowly into the jar, filling it just enough to cover all the leaves. Don’t worry if the leaves float a bit; the vodka will still do its job. For this step, we typically just use the cheapest vodka we can find at the grocery store, any quality will do the trick.

5. Letting the Mixture Steep

This step requires patience! Seal the jar tightly with a lid and store it in a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard or pantry. We recommend letting it sit for about a month, giving the jar a gentle shake every few days. The longer it sits, the stronger the mint flavor will become.

6. Straining the Leaves from the Extract

After around four weeks, our mint extract should have a strong, fresh aroma. To finish, we’ll strain out the leaves using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, leaving only the pure extract. At this point, the extract is ready for use, and we can transfer it to a clean jar or bottle with a tight seal for storage.

7. Storing and Using Your Mint Extract

Homemade mint extract can be stored at room temperature in a dark spot or the refrigerator if you prefer. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly in baking, teas, cocktails, or any dish that could use a refreshing, minty touch.

Harness The Freshness

What We Use

Stainless Steel Microporous Colander – (https://amzn.to/48KoGol)

Pint Size Mason Jars – (https://amzn.to/3YM1yRF)