Sauces British

Mint Sauce

The classic sharp, fresh British accompaniment to roast lamb. Basic perks up a shop-bought jar, Better is fresh mint steeped in warm vinegar, and Ultimate macerates garden mint with cider vinegar and a touch of elderflower.

Serves4
Time12 min
Cost / serving£0.45
Vegetarian Vegan Dairy-free Gluten-free Nut-free

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Better version

Fresh mint finely chopped and steeped in warm sweetened malt vinegar.

Per serving£0.45
Total cost£1.80
Time12 min
Servings

Ingredients for 4

  • 30 g fresh mint leaves , large bunch, leaves picked
  • 1 tbsp caster sugar
  • 4 tbsp malt vinegar
  • 2 tbsp boiling water
  • 1 pinch salt

Method

  1. Pile the mint leaves with the sugar and a pinch of salt, then chop together finely; the sugar helps draw out the oils.
  2. Dissolve the rest of the sugar in the boiling water, then stir in the malt vinegar.
  3. Scrape the chopped mint into the warm vinegar and stir well.
  4. Leave to steep for at least 20 minutes so the flavour develops before serving.

Equipment

The three ways, side by side

Budget
£0.30 / serving · 5 min

A jar of mint sauce brightened with fresh mint and a pinch of sugar.

Better
£0.45 / serving · 12 min

Fresh mint finely chopped and steeped in warm sweetened malt vinegar.

Ultimate
£0.70 / serving · 17 min

Garden mint macerated with cider vinegar, elderflower cordial and a hint of lemon for a fragrant, balanced sauce.