Air Fryer Mint Drying: A Quick, Easy Guide

Air fryers are a convenient way to dry mint leaves, and it only takes a few minutes! This method is a great alternative to the traditional oven-drying technique, which can take several hours. To dry mint in an air fryer, start by washing and drying the mint leaves. Then, preheat your air fryer to around 350°F to 360°F. Place the mint leaves in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and add a trivet or rack over the leaves to prevent them from flying around. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, and then check for doneness. The leaves should appear dry and break easily when gently squeezed. If needed, add more time in 1-minute increments. Finally, separate the leaves from the stems and store the dried mint in an airtight container to preserve the flavour.

How to dry mint in an air fryer

Drying mint in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to preserve your mint for later use. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving the best results:

Preparation

Start by washing your mint leaves under running water or soaking them to remove any dirt. You can also use a salad spinner to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned. Once cleaned, gently pat the leaves dry with a paper towel or kitchen cloth. Air dry the mint leaves for at least 30 minutes to an hour to remove excess moisture.

Air Fryer Setup

Preheat your air fryer to between 137°F/58°C and 350°F. The ideal temperature will depend on your air fryer model and the specific result you are looking for.

Arranging the Mint Leaves

Arrange the mint leaves in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you are using the leaves for tea, remove them from the stems ahead of time. Overlapping is generally okay, but try to keep the leaves as close to a single layer as possible to avoid wet spots. If you are drying a large batch of mint, you may need to dry in batches to ensure even drying.

Drying the Mint Leaves

Place a trivet or rack over the mint leaves, or bind the stems together with a heat-safe tie, to prevent the leaves from flying around or getting into the heating element. Cook the mint leaves for 2 to 3 minutes at the chosen temperature, then check for doneness. The leaves should appear dry and break easily when gently squeezed. If additional time is needed, add in 1-minute increments.

Storing the Dried Mint

Once the mint leaves are dried, separate them from the stems by gently plucking them off. If you want crushed mint, you can squeeze your hand around the stem over a plate to remove the leaves. Store the dried mint in an airtight container, such as a glass jar, to preserve the flavour.

Tips

• The dried mint will naturally brown, but if you prefer a greener leaf, try drying the mint in the microwave instead.
• Dried mint will keep well for about a year if stored properly in a dark place.
• You can also dry mint with an oven, food dehydrator, or the traditional air-drying method.

How to store dried mint

Once you've dried your mint, you'll want to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh for as long as possible. Here are some tips on how to store dried mint:

• Use airtight glass containers: Store your dried mint in airtight glass containers to prevent moisture from getting in and to retain the mint's flavour and aroma. Avoid using porous materials like cardboard or certain plastics, as they will absorb the mint oil.
• Store in a cool, dark place: Keep your dried mint in a cool, dark area, such as a cupboard or pantry. This will help maintain its freshness and quality.
• Check for moisture: In the days following the drying process, periodically check the dried mint leaves for any signs of moisture in the container. If moisture is detected, repeat the drying process for a longer period to prevent the formation of mould.
• Consume within a year: Dried mint has a shelf life of about 12 months when stored properly. After this period, it will begin to lose quality and potency, although it is still safe to consume.
• Store whole or crushed: You can store the mint leaves whole or crumble them before adding them to your recipes. Crumbling the leaves just before use helps release their delightful aroma.

Benefits of drying mint in an air fryer

Drying mint in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to preserve your mint leaves for later use. Here are some benefits of using an air fryer for this purpose:

Quick Dehydration:

Air fryers can dehydrate mint leaves in a matter of minutes, with most sources stating a range of 2 to 3 minutes. This is significantly faster than traditional air-drying methods, which can take days or even weeks. It is also quicker than using an oven or a dedicated food dehydrator, which can take several hours.

Convenience and Accessibility:

Air fryers are a common kitchen appliance, and drying mint in an air fryer is a simple process that does not require any special equipment or skills. This method is especially useful if you already own an air fryer, as you won't need to purchase any additional tools.

Improved Shelf Life:

By drying your mint, you can extend its shelf life and enjoy its flavor for a longer period. Dried mint can be stored in airtight containers for up to a year, with some sources claiming it can last even longer, up to three years.

Enhanced Flavor:

Dried mint has a more concentrated flavor than fresh mint, and it can add a unique depth of flavor to your dishes and drinks. It is also a great way to preserve the mint at its best, similar to canned tomatoes, which are preserved at their peak.

Cost-Effective:

Making dried mint at home is much more cost-effective than buying it from stores. It is also a great way to utilize any leftover mint you may have, reducing food waste.

Versatility:

Dried mint has a wide range of uses, from seasoning blends and teas to compound butter, flavored cheese, and marinades for meats and grills. It can be used in Middle Eastern cuisine, seasoning blends, cucumber raita, tzatziki, and flatbreads, soups, pasta, risotto, and more.

Easy Storage:

Dried mint is easy to store and can be kept in airtight containers or glass jars. It does not require any special storage conditions, other than a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

In summary, drying mint in an air fryer is a convenient, quick, and cost-effective way to preserve your mint leaves, enhancing their flavor and extending their shelf life for various culinary applications.

How to use dried mint

Dried mint is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups to desserts. Here are some ways to use dried mint:

Tea

Make tea with the dried mint, especially if you are using chocolate mint leaves or spearmint. Dried mint tea is a refreshing and healthy drink option.

Seasoning

Dried mint can be used as a seasoning in various dishes. Sprinkle dried mint into seasoning blends or use it as a salt substitute. You can also crush the dried mint leaves between your fingers and add them to yoghurt-garlic sauce, Indian mint sauce, or parathas for a burst of freshness.

Salads

Dried mint is excellent in salads, especially lemon or vinegar-based ones. It adds a unique flavour and aroma to the salad.

Meat Dishes

Dried mint pairs well with meat dishes, especially those with lamb or lamb mince. You can add dried mint to meatballs, burgers, or koftas, giving them a delicious earthy flavour.

Middle Eastern and Persian Cuisine

Dried mint is commonly used in Middle Eastern and Persian cuisine. It can be added to lentil soups, rice dishes, marinades for chicken or fish, and many other recipes from these regions.

Soups

Dried mint can enhance the flavour of soups. You can add it to vegetable soups, pea soup, or even make a Middle Eastern-style soup like the Turkish Ezo gelin corbasi, which includes red lentils, tomato-infused broth, paprika, and dried mint.

Desserts

Dried mint can be used in desserts, such as chocolate mint ice cream or mint chocolate chip cookies. It adds a unique flavour to these sweet treats.

Yogurt-Based Dishes

Dried mint can be added to yogurt-based dishes like tzatziki or cucumber raita. It provides a refreshing and tangy flavour to these dishes.

Other methods of drying mint

There are several ways to dry mint without an air fryer. Here are four alternative methods:

Using a Food Dehydrator

Clean the mint leaves and lay them in a single layer on each dehydrator tray. Dry the mint at 40°C/105°F for three to five hours or until the leaves are brittle and crumble easily.

Using a Microwave

This method is best for small amounts of mint. Spread clean, dry mint leaves on a plate so they are not touching. Microwave on a low setting for ten-second intervals until they are crispy and dry.

Oven Drying

Once the mint is rinsed and dried, remove the leaves from the stems and lay them in a thin layer on a lined baking tray. Dry in the oven at 40°C/105°F until completely dry. Turn the leaves every half an hour and keep the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.

Air Drying

Air drying is a traditional way to dry mint. Gather the mint into a bouquet and tie it together with string at the bottom of the stems. Hang the bouquet in a warm, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. This method can take anywhere from a couple of days to two weeks, depending on the climate.

Frequently asked questions