The perfect Mint Julep. Happy Derby!
When it comes to making a Mint Julep, simplicity is key. Don't try to dress it up. Don't try to "enhance" the flavor by adding a dash of this or a sprinkle of that. And, for God sakes, don't buy one of those god-awful premade mixes. Any of these is a sure fire recipe for disaster, cause - let's face it - there are LOTS of ways to screw up a Mint Julep. The only question you need to ask yourself - or your guests - is how long do you want to be standing, because a Mint Julep made right is a deceptively easy concoction to drink quickly and easily.
Here are some simple steps to follow for making a classic, delicious Mint Julep:
The ingredients - that's all, nothing else
- 1 ½ cups - Confectioner's (powdered) sugar (I use powdered sugar because it dissolves quickly without having to heat it.)
- ½ cup - Water
- Several sprigs - Fresh mint
- Bourbon
- Crushed ice
- First, in your Derby glass, drop in a few sprigs of fresh mint and muddle (crush the hell out of) it.
- Add crushed ice up to almost the top of the glass.
- Mix your confectioner's sugar and water in a separate cup - preferably a measuring cup with a spout for pouring.
- Pour your simple syrup in your glass until it is about three-quarters of the way full. (Ice will still be on top)
- Top off with bourbon - to taste, but about 2 ounces makes for a fairly strong drink.
- And, of course, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cheers!
Happy Derby everyone!
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