All About Fresh mint leaves
Your complete guide to fresh mint leaves - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Fresh mint leaves Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for fresh mint leaves in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Raw in Fridge (Short-Term Fresh)5-10 days
Signs of Spoilage
Leaves turning dark green, yellow, or black; wilting, becoming limp and soft; slimy or mushy texture; sour, moldy, or off-putting smell; visible mold (fuzzy white, gray, or black spots).
How to Check
Visual Inspection: Look for bright green, firm leaves. Avoid any dark, yellow, or discolored spots, and check carefully for mold. Touch Test: Fresh mint should feel crisp and firm. If it's slimy, mushy, or excessively limp, it's past its prime. Smell Test: Fresh mint has a strong, invigorating aroma. If it smells sour, musty, or has no discernible scent, it's likely spoiled.
Storage Tips
Best Method: Treat mint like a bouquet of flowers. Trim the stems, place them in a glass with about an inch of water, cover loosely with a plastic bag, and refrigerate. Change the water daily. Alternative Method: Wrap unwashed mint in a slightly damp paper towel, then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container in the crisper drawer. Wash mint just before use, not before storage, as excess moisture encourages spoilage.
Frozen (Long-Term Preservation)6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Severe freezer burn (excessive ice crystals, discoloration, dry spots) leading to significant loss of flavor/aroma. An off-smell after thawing (though texture will be soft, the smell should still be minty). Note: Mint should not be frozen if it shows signs of spoilage before freezing.
How to Check
Visual Inspection: Upon thawing, the leaves will be soft and limp, which is normal. Look for signs of severe freezer burn that might indicate flavor degradation. Smell Test (after thawing): It should still smell distinctly like mint, even if less potent than fresh. If it smells off, metallic, or has no minty aroma, discard it.
Storage Tips
Method 1 (Chopped): Chop mint, place in ice cube trays with a little water or oil (like olive oil for savory uses), freeze, then transfer the frozen cubes to an airtight freezer bag. Method 2 (Whole Leaves): Lay whole, washed, and thoroughly dried leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen mint will lose its crisp texture and is best used in applications where texture isn't paramount (e.g., teas, sauces, smoothies). Always label and date freezer bags.