Instructions

1. Harvest the mint just before the flowering stage. Cut each stem at the base of the plant. Be careful not to crush or break the mint leaves during harvesting.

2. Rinse the cut plants well in cold water; warm or hot water can leach out essential oils. Remove and discard any damaged or discolored leaves.

3. Pat dry with paper towel, then lay out the washed plants in single layers on more paper towel to dry. Allow to dry for at least two to three hours until completely dry; if moisture remains on the plants, they may become moldy. You can also dry them in a salad spinner, then finish drying on paper towels.

4. Gather eight to ten stems of the dried mint; tie the sprigs together at the bottom. Hang the tied bunches upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated room. Allow the mint to air-dry for one to two weeks until completely dry.

5. Strip the leaves from the dried bunches; be careful not to crush the leaves as you remove them from the stems. Discard the stems. Store the dried mint in airtight containers in a cool dark location.