To compile a kernel, either new or patched or otherwise, you really have to fiollow any guides available, so you would be reading Debian methods, since LMDE is based from Debian, and their methods should apply
Excepting any Mint added features or changes
--however most of these Linux distributions use a standard kernel and add modules so as to not mismatch with the upstream(parent) developers (Debian in this case..)
http://newbiedoc.sourceforge.net/system/kernel-pkg.html It is always a careful step-by-step procedure
--but if you do attempt it, you will fairly clearly see the process: overall
When you get to the menuconfig part, this then becomes easy, what do you need compiled into the kernel, your custom kernel ?
