Calamintha

Calamintha is a genus of herbs with a mint-like aroma, members of the mint family. It includes Calamintha nepeta, which is used in soups and sauces, particularly in Italian and Mediterranean cooking where its pungent, minty-oregano character seasons meats, mushrooms and tomato dishes. Like other culinary herbs, calamintha contributes volatile essential oils that lift savoury foods, and it is valued both fresh and dried. Its strong flavour means a little goes a long way in the pot. In the garden it is an easy perennial, and its dried leaves keep their pungent character well, making it a useful year-round seasoning for savoury cooking.