Mint

Mentha spicatai (butinan in Burmese) is widely used as a fresh herb, especially in non-Bamar households. Perhaps that reflects the fact that mint grows best in slightly cool environments, so that the dry hot Irrawaddy Valley, the heartland of Bamar culture, doesn’t suit it as well. Use a regular spearmint in any recipes that call for mint. Even though the flavor is very different, feel free to substitute it for coriander leaves if you prefer, when they are called for as a fresh garnish.