How To Store Pudina Leaves: See 5 Easy Storage Tips For Cocktails
Fresh mint garnishes for cocktails and mocktails may be popular, but get the storage of pudina wrong, and the drinks can taste off-balance. This is why getting the sourcing and storing of mint leaves plays a crucial role for budding bartenders and expert mixologists alike.
Pudina leaves can be stored in several ways, each affecting its flavour. The most common method is placing the stems in a glass of water, covered loosely with a plastic bag, and refrigerated. The method keeps the leaves crisp and aromatic for a few days.
Alternatively, wrapping the bunch in a damp paper towel and sealing it in an airtight container helps retain its moisture and brightness.
For longer storage, pudina can be frozen in ice cubes, but this may slightly mute its flavour and aroma. Overall, proper storage ensures mint remains vibrant, adding taste to drinks like the mojito cocktail and the mint julep cocktail. But sometimes these ways are not enough; here are few clever ways to store your pudina leaves for your next mint cocktail recipes.
How To Store Pudina Leaves? 5 Clever Ways To Try
1. Air Dry and Store
Hang pudina leaves in a shaded, well-ventilated space until completely dry. Once moisture is removed, store them in an airtight glass jar. Although the flavour becomes milder, dried pudina is useful in infusions or garnishes where fresh texture is not essential but aroma is still needed.
2. Use Vacuum Sealing
Vacuum sealing removes air and seals pudina tightly in a moisture-free environment. This method significantly extends shelf life while preserving colour and aroma. It is suitable for bar setups where consistency and long-term storage of herbs are important for maintaining the quality of cocktail garnishes.
3. Blanch and Freeze
Blanch pudina leaves in boiling water for a few seconds, then transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process. Once dried, freeze them in sealed bags. This technique helps retain colour and structure, although the flavour may soften slightly when used in cocktail applications.
4. Store in Cloth Pouch
Wrap pudina leaves in a clean cotton or muslin cloth and place them in the refrigerator's vegetable drawer. This traditional, breathable method absorbs excess moisture and prevents wilting. It maintains the natural texture of the leaves, making them suitable for garnish in drinks that require presentation.
5. Infuse in Neutral Spirit
Place 15-12 pudina leaves in a sealed glass container with a neutral spirit, such as 15 ml of vodka, to let it infuse. While the leaves lose texture, the liquid captures the herb’s flavour. This infused base is ideal for adding mint notes to cocktails without fresh leaves.
*Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
