The perfect Fresh Mint Julip
The Mint Julip is famously associated with the Kentucky Derby where it has been the official drink since the late 19th century.
A Mint Julip is traditionally made with bourbon (ahem, Kentucky Bourbon), fresh mint, sugar and crushed ice, served in a silver or pewter cup.
No silver cups in my house, but I have plenty of mint!
For this cocktail, I’m going skip the traditional muddling and make a mint simple syrup for a bright, herbaceous coacktail. This recipe makes enough mint syrup for 8 servings. You can keep the simple syrup in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to two weeks or just have friends over!
Mint Simple Syrup:
2 cups water
2 cups sugar
1/2 cup mint leaves, roughly chopped
Instructions:
Prepare the simple syrup. Place water, sugar and fresh mint in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil and cook for 1-2 minutes or until the sugar dissolves. Stir occasionally. Let it cool for 1 hour or overnight. Strain and discard the used mint leaves.
Make the cocktail. Pack 8 glasses to the brim with crushed ice. Pour 4 ounces of bourbon and 1/4 cup of mint simple syrup into each glass. Garnish with fresh mint and enjoy!
Mint Julip VS. Mojito
Similar to the mint julep, the mojito is big on mint. But these are very different drinks.
The mojito is a Cuban cocktail. It features white rum, lime, mint, simple syrup, and club soda.
The mint julep is a southern cocktail featuring bourbon, mint, and simple syrup.
Despite their differences, both are refreshing thirst-quenchers on a hot day.
No alcohol? No problem.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic drink, I’d recommend replacing the bourbon with a half-teaspoon of vanilla extract and adding either club soda or water for a refreshing, virgin Mint Julip.
