The iconic mint green tea: we tell you all about it!
Mint green tea is deeply rooted in global traditions, particularly in Morocco, where it is highly prized throughout the day. Whether at home or in the city, in hotels or souks, this drink holds a special place in Moroccan culture. Its consumption carries a unique symbolism of sharing and hospitality. Accompanied by delicious almond pastries such as gazelle horns or makrout, mint tea offers a warm and welcoming culinary experience for Moroccans.
We invite you to discover the history of mint green tea, its benefits for body and mind, and to share a delicious recipe as well as practical tips for its preparation.
Origin of the recipe
Mint green tea originates from the western Maghreb, specifically Morocco. A true institution in the region, it is served with generosity and conviviality. It is the drink of hospitality par excellence. The recipe has crossed borders and gradually spread worldwide, becoming one of the most appreciated hot beverages.
Traditionally, the drink is prepared with gunpowder green tea. It offers a softer and more balanced base than other green teas and allows the mint flavor to truly shine.
Gunpowder tea is made of tea leaves rolled into small, tight pellets. This allows hot water to penetrate the leaves slowly and evenly, ensuring optimal tea infusion. This characteristic is important for extracting the aromas and benefits of green tea.
Its History
According to legend, the recipe was introduced by the masters of the Almohad dynasty in the 12th century. Over time, this drink became a symbol of Moroccan hospitality, an invitation to relaxation and sharing. Even today, mint green tea is consumed daily in many countries and is often served during special ceremonies, social gatherings, or at the end of lunch.
The benefits of mint tea
Mint tea is rich in antioxidants, making it a beneficial drink for health with stimulating properties for concentration and alertness. Additionally, it is also known for its soothing virtues, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Mint is appreciated for its digestive, refreshing, and calming properties. It is also a source of essential vitamins and minerals.
Mint in France?
Peppermint is an aromatic plant also popular in France, where it is very common, appreciated for its intense aroma and refreshing flavor. Relatively easy to grow in gardens or pots, it simply requires moist, well-drained soil. It can be harvested throughout the year but reaches its full maturity in spring and summer. Ideal for accompanying your dishes and drinks.
Recipe and preparation tips
> Serves: 4 people
> Preparation time: 5 minutes
> Cooking time: 3 to 5 minutes
> Difficulty: Easy
1. Ingredients
> 1 L of water - preferably filtered
> 4 teaspoons of Miss Mentha or gunpowder green tea
> 1 bunch of fresh peppermint
> 4 tablespoons of sugar or honey, according to your preference
2a. Preparation of the traditional recipe
1. In a teapot, pour the gunpowder green tea.
2. Heat water to about 75°C and pour it over the tea. Let it infuse for 2 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, rinse the fresh peppermint under cold water to clean it.
4. Add the mint leaves to the teapot and let them infuse for another 2 minutes.
5. Add sugar or honey to your taste and stir well.
6. Pour the mint green tea, straining the mint leaves well.
2b. Preparation of the Ascenbio recipe - Miss Mentha green tea
1. In a teapot, pour the Miss Mentha green tea.
2. Rinse the fresh peppermint under cold water to clean it.
3. Heat water to about 75°C and pour it over the tea.
Add the washed mint and let it infuse for 3 minutes.
4. Add sugar or honey to your taste and stir well.
5. Pour the mint green tea, straining the mint leaves well.
2c. Preparation of the Ascenbio herbal tea version - without tea or theine
1. In a teapot, pour dried mint leaves.
2. Rinse the fresh peppermint under cold water to clean it.
3. Heat water to about 75°C and pour it over the leaves.
Add the washed mint and let it infuse for 3 minutes.
4. Add sugar or honey to your taste and stir well.
5. Pour the infusion of dried and fresh mint, straining the mint leaves well.
3. Serving suggestions
> For an extra touch of freshness, you can add a few slices of fresh lemon.
> Serve mint green tea with dates or pastries for a truly authentic taste experience.
> For an iced preparation, simply let the tea cool after infusing. Add ice cubes and enjoy it chilled!
Our opinion
Mint green tea is a must-have among flavored teas. It is closely linked to convivial moments in many countries and finds its place both at the end of a meal and in the afternoon. Our organic Miss Mentha green tea is a perfect balance between the vegetal notes of gunpowder and the peppermint from our regions.