I had the impression that you hadn't actually tried making it yet.A disclaimer here taxy: I've never made Balela, just eaten it. Some recipes call for mint too. Not a fan since I got sick on Creme de Menthe on our honeymoon, but the Trader Joe's pre-made doesn't have mint. I'm trying this recipe sometime Sunday or Monday, in case you want a review.
I rather dislike mint. But, a bit of mint in some recipes can be quite nice. It shouldn't be noticeable.
Creme de Menthe is vile stuff. I once had it in a drinkable form in Spain. We asked the bar tender to make his favourite drink for himself and us. I was quietly horrified when he served us a foamy, green drink. It was green creme de menthe and goat's milk, shaken 'til it foamed. It was actually quite nice. Colour me surprised.