Naneh - Mint paste

Naneh - Mint Paste: A Flavorful Delicacy for Your Dishes

Naneh, or mint paste, is an essential ingredient that every cooking enthusiast should have in their fridge. This vibrant paste not only enriches dishes but also brings a fresh and invigorating note to any recipe. With roots in rich culinary traditions, naneh is often used in yogurt dishes, salads, and sauces. Additionally, it’s a perfect ingredient to add a splash of freshness to refreshing drinks. Let’s embark on a journey to prepare this aromatic paste together!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 1 small jar (approximately 200 g)

Ingredients:
- 1 cup of fresh mint (about 30-40 g of leaves)
- 2 tablespoons of coarse salt

Key points of the recipe:
1. Fresh mint is the cornerstone of this recipe. If you’re lucky enough to have fresh mint on your balcony or in your garden, even better! Fresh mint provides an intense and vibrant flavor that you will need.
2. Coarse salt not only helps preserve the paste but also enhances the mint flavor. Make sure to use high-quality salt for the best results.

Step by Step:

1. Harvesting and preparing mint: Start by picking fresh mint leaves. Choose healthy, green leaves without spots. Wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities or insects. After washing, dry the leaves using a kitchen towel or a salad spinner. This step is essential, as excess water will dilute the paste.

2. Food processor: Once the mint leaves are well dried, roughly chop them to facilitate processing. Place the leaves in the food processor. Add the two tablespoons of coarse salt along with the mint. The salt will help achieve a smooth consistency and contribute to preserving the paste.

3. Grinding: Start the food processor and blend the ingredients until you achieve a fine paste. You can stop the processor occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring that all the leaves are well ground. This process should take about 2-3 minutes.

4. Storing: Transfer the mint paste to a small jar or a plastic container with a lid. Ensure that the container is clean and dry to prevent mold formation. Cover the paste with a thin layer of olive oil to maintain freshness and give it an extra flavor.

5. Refrigeration: Place the jar in the fridge, where the mint paste will keep for a few weeks. Don’t forget to use it frequently!

Serving suggestions:
Mint paste is extremely versatile. You can use it in various dishes like tzatziki, potato salads, sauces for meat or fish, and even in yogurt-based refreshing drinks. Add a teaspoon of mint paste to plain yogurt to create a refreshing and healthy snack.

Interesting variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add other herbs like parsley or basil to create a unique paste. You can also try replacing coarse salt with sea salt or flavored salt for a distinct touch.

Nutritional benefits:
Mint is a plant with numerous health benefits. It has digestive, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Additionally, it is low in calories, making it perfect for those looking to add flavor to dishes without contributing to a caloric surplus. A serving of this paste (about 1 tablespoon) has approximately 15 calories, making it a healthy choice.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use dried mint? Although mint paste is best made with fresh mint, you can use dried mint in its absence. However, keep in mind that the flavor won’t be as intense.
- How can I use mint paste? Use it in sauces, salads, yogurts, or even to flavor drinks. It’s perfect for adding a fresh and invigorating taste.
- How long does mint paste last? In the fridge, mint paste lasts up to 4 weeks if stored correctly in an airtight container.

Personal story:
I discovered naneh during a trip, where I was fascinated by how a simple ingredient could transform a mundane dish into an explosion of flavors. When I started growing mint at home, I realized that this simple recipe brings me a touch of that memory every time I use it. It’s an ingredient that brings me joy and inspiration in the kitchen.

In conclusion, naneh is a simple yet extremely versatile recipe that will enrich your dishes with a fresh taste. Don’t hesitate to try it and experiment with other ingredients to achieve delicious combinations. Happy cooking and enjoy the freshness of mint in every bite!