Have you ever sipped on a Grasshopper or savored a slice of mint chocolate chip ice cream and wondered where that refreshing minty flavor originated? Crème de Menthe, a mint-flavored liqueur, has tantalized taste buds for over two centuries, with its roots deeply entrenched in French culinary tradition. Though its exact birth is shrouded in mystery, believed to have been concocted in France during the late 18th or early 19th century, this liqueur quickly found its way across the globe, becoming a staple in bars and homes alike. Not just a drink, but a versatile ingredient, Crème de Menthe has been used in an array of cocktails and desserts, adding a touch of elegance and a blast of freshness. From its first recorded mention in the United States in 1856 to becoming the star of the show in various classic cocktails, this liqueur's journey through history is as rich and intriguing as its flavor.
Key Takeaway
Timeline
Day Activities
1. Kick off National Creme de Menthe Day with a bang by hosting a mixology workshop. Invite friends over and challenge each other to concoct the most inventive cocktail using this minty liqueur. From classic Grasshoppers to modern twists, let creativity flow. Don't forget to garnish with a fresh mint leaf for that extra pizzazz!
2. For those with a sweet tooth, baking sessions are a must. Whip up some Creme de Menthe-infused desserts like chocolate mint brownies or a refreshing mint chocolate chip ice cream. Sharing these goodies with neighbors or coworkers will not only spread joy but also introduce more folks to the delights of this special day.
3. End the day by relaxing with a Creme de Menthe-themed movie night. Select films that either feature this liqueur or inspire its use in a drink. Mix up a batch of minty cocktails, cozy up with a blanket, and let the cinematic journey begin. It's a perfect way to wind down and celebrate the essence of National Creme de Menthe Day.
Why We Love This Day
Why We Love National Creme De Menthe Day September 15
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Celebrates a centuries-old tradition: Creme de Menthe's roots stretch back to France in the late 18th or early 19th century, making it a beverage with a rich history. This day isn't just about enjoying a minty drink; it's about honoring a tradition that has been passed down through generations. Sipping on Creme de Menthe or using it in recipes connects us to a time-honored craft of distilling and flavoring that has stood the test of time.
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Encourages creativity in the kitchen: Sure, you can enjoy Creme de Menthe straight up, but where's the fun in that? National Creme de Menthe Day sparks creativity among foodies and cocktail aficionados alike. From whipping up a classic Grasshopper cocktail to baking it into decadent desserts, this day is a perfect excuse to experiment with new recipes and add a minty twist to your favorites. It's all about mixing, shaking, and baking your way to minty perfection.
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Brings a splash of color to your day: With its vibrant green hue, Creme de Menthe adds a pop of color to any drink or dish. This isn't just about taste; it's a feast for the eyes! Whether you're crafting a visually stunning cocktail or adding a dash of color to your culinary creations, Creme de Menthe makes everything more festive. So, on September 15, let's toast to this liqueur's ability to make our lives a bit more colorful.
Past & Future Dates
| Month | Day | Year |
|---|---|---|
| SEPTEMBER | 15 | 2022 |
| SEPTEMBER | 15 | 2023 |
| SEPTEMBER | 15 | 2024 |
| SEPTEMBER | 15 | 2025 |
| SEPTEMBER | 15 | 2026 |
| SEPTEMBER | 15 | 2027 |
| SEPTEMBER | 15 | 2028 |
FAQ
Is crème de menthe good for your stomach?
It's good for digestion. Do you sometimes have a heavy dinner and wish something could instantly help you feel less bloated? That's where crème de menthe comes in. Mint has great digestive qualities making it an excellent drink to have after dinner. It's cooling and refreshing and will help your digestion process.
Why is it called crème de menthe?
Crème de menthe (pronounced [kʁɛm də mɑ̃t], French for "mint cream") is a sweet, mint-flavored alcoholic beverage. It is available commercially in a colorless version (called "white") and a green version (colored by the mint leaves or by added coloring if made from extract instead of leaves).
How old is crème de menthe?
When was crème de menthe invented? Crème de menthe was first developed by Emile Giffard in 1885 who was a dispensing pharmacist undertaking research on mint and its digestive and refreshment properties.
Is peppermint schnapps the same as crème de menthe?
Though they're made in much the same way, there is a noticeable difference. Peppermint schnapps is less sweet, has a more intense mint flavor, and typically contains more alcohol. Crème de menthe is not creamy—crème refers to the thickness due to a lot of sugar—and it's almost too sweet to drink alone.