Vietnamese mint, also known as Vietnamese coriander or laksa leaf, is a versatile herb that is widely used in Vietnamese and South East Asian cuisine. Its unique flavor and aroma make it a popular choice for enhancing the taste of various dishes. Let me share with you some of the culinary uses of Vietnamese mint.
1. Vietnamese and South East Asian Cuisine: Vietnamese mint is a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes from Vietnam and other South East Asian countries. It is commonly used in rice dishes, such as fried rice or steamed jasmine rice, to add a refreshing and aromatic flavor. It is also used in meat and poultry dishes, like grilled chicken or stir-fried beef, to infuse them with a citrusy and slightly spicy taste.
2. Curry and Soup: Vietnamese mint is often added to curries and soups to give them a burst of flavor. Its zesty and earthy taste complements the rich and spicy flavors of curries, such as Thai green curry or Malaysian laksa. It can be added during the cooking process or used as a garnish to enhance the overall taste and presentation of the dish.
3. Rice Paper Rolls: One of the most popular uses of Vietnamese mint is in rice paper rolls, also known as summer rolls or fresh spring rolls. These rolls are made by wrapping a variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, and protein in rice paper. Vietnamese mint adds a distinct and refreshing flavor to these rolls, making them even more delicious. Its vibrant green color also adds visual appeal to the dish.
4. Salads: Vietnamese mint is a fantastic addition to salads, whether it’s a traditional green salad or an Asian-inspired salad. Its bright flavor and crisp texture complement the fresh vegetables and other ingredients in the salad. You can either tear the leaves and mix them into the salad or use them as a garnish for added visual appeal.
5. Marinades and Dressings: The aromatic and tangy flavor of Vietnamese mint makes it an excellent choice for marinades and dressings. You can finely chop or blend the leaves with other ingredients like garlic, chili, lime juice, and fish sauce to create a flavorful marinade for meats or a zesty dressing for salads.
6. Herbal Infusions and Cocktails: Vietnamese mint can also be used to make refreshing herbal infusions and cocktails. Steep a few leaves in hot water along with your favorite tea for a fragrant and soothing drink. You can also muddle the leaves with sugar, lime juice, and your choice of spirits to create unique and flavorful cocktails.
In my personal experience, I have used Vietnamese mint in Vietnamese-style stir-fried noodles and found that it added a delightful burst of flavor to the dish. I have also used it in a mango and prawn salad, where its citrusy notes complemented the sweetness of the mango and the savory flavors of the prawns.
Vietnamese mint is a versatile herb that can elevate the taste of various dishes. Its unique flavor profile adds a refreshing and aromatic twist to traditional Vietnamese and South East Asian cuisine. Whether you use it in rice dishes, salads, curries, or even cocktails, Vietnamese mint is sure to impress your taste buds with its vibrant taste and aroma.
