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Aromatic Time Travelers: How Two Herbs Shaped World Cuisine
Mint and basil are popular kitchen staples across cultures worldwide. Their stories stretch back thousands of years, connecting us to ancient civilizations and their culinary wisdom. Today, we talk about how these aromatic herbs grew from medicinal plants to cultural icons, with distinct roles in cuisines that span continents and centuries.
Join us as we:
- Uncover the history of mint and trace this herb’s origins from ancient Egyptian funeral rites to Roman medicinal uses and its eventual place in kitchens worldwide.
- Explore basil’s journey and learn how this plant traveled from India along trade routes to become a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine.
- Celebrate cultural symbolism and discover the meanings these herbs carry beyond cooking—mint’s connection to hospitality and basil’s sacred status in various traditions.
So, grab your favorite herb-infused drink and join us for a fascinating exploration of these aromatic treasures that have flavored our world for millennia!

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Resources
Keep the learning going with these websites and resources.
- The History Of The Mint Plant
- The Cool, Refreshing History of Mint – Tablet Magazine
- Sahara Collapsible Dehydrator
- Mast-o-Khiar with Walnuts and Raisins
- Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls with Shrimp + Peanut Sauce
- Skillet Lasagna with Lamb, Ricotta, + Mint
- Middle Eastern Fattoush Salad with Homemade Pita Chips
- Blueberry and Feta Bulgur Salad with Mint Dressing
- Peanut Noodles with Roasted Pork Tenderloin + Honeyed Oranges
- Fresh Mint Tea
- Arabic Tea with Fresh Mint
- The History of Basil
- Balsamic Roasted Tomato Caprese Pasta Salad
- Pasta Salad Skewers with Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Tolon’s Strawberry Basil Shortcake
- Antipasto Bloody Mary
- Zoodle Frittata
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