There are myriad types of mint one can grow in their garden, but the two most common found in grocery stores and at farmers markets are spearmint and peppermint. The former has brighter green leaves with a more textured surface, while the latter boasts darker green, fairly smooth leaves. While both varieties lend their cool, refreshing flavor to dishes, spearmint is sweeter and milder — and most often what is meant when a recipe simply calls for “mint.” (If peppermint is all you have, use it in recipes as long as you are okay with its stronger flavor. Otherwise, try starting with less than what is listed and adjust to your taste.)
