Why Do You Slap Mint Leaves

Smacking the garnish releases the aromatics of fresh herbs and adds a nice showy touch to herb-forward drinks like a mojito or a basil-enhanced gin and tonic. To understand why, you have to understand how herbs make a drink taste better.

Why do you slap herbs?

By giving the herbs a smack, you’re rupturing some of their cells and releasing their essential oils, thus upping the aroma. … The aroma will be much stronger the second time around. Herb garnishes are an obvious fit whenever there are also herbs in the drink itself: mint atop a mojito or julep, say.

Can you grind mint leaves?

Spread the leaves on a large baking sheet or large plates lined with a cotton cloth. Keep the plate in strong sun for 6-8 hours. Grind the dry leaves in a blender to make a fine powder. … Store dry mint powder in an airtight container for up to a year.