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Mint JulepThe Fourth of July means different things for everyone, but it usually means it’s time to give props to America, eat some smoked meat and have a few cool drinks. And what’s more American than bourbon? With that in mind, here’s your new way to give a toast to the good, old US of A – the mint julep. The julep is not just some drink people wearing ridiculous hats trot out for the Kentucky Derby. It’s a great way to take bourbon drinking into the summer without breaking a sweat. A word of warning, this drink might not be for everyone. If your idea of a good, stiff drink is a sweet appletini or a syrupy sex on the beach, this drink may not be for you. I made two variations. The first recipe requires a mint simple syrup which is outlined below.
Mint Julep Recipe 1
2 shots bourbon (I like Maker’s Mark)
2 teaspoons of mint syrup (see below)
handful of crushed ice
mint leaf for garnish
Mix bourbon and syrup in glass, top off with ice and stir. Drink responsibly (or not).
Mint Julep Recipe 2
2-3 mint leaves
1 teaspoon of powdered sugar
2 shots of bourbon
½ shot of soda water
Place mint leaves and sugar in bottom of glass and muddle contents using a spoon until mixed well. Add bourbon, soda water and ice and stir.
I found the second recipe really brought out the distinct fresh flavor of the mint and coupled nicely with the rich carmely bourbon.
Mint Simple Syrup
8-10 mint leaves chopped
1 cup of water
1 cup of granulated sugar
Place all ingredients into sauce pan. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes. Strain the mixture into a container and chill in refrigerator. You’ll need lots of crushed ice for a night of julep fun so plan accordingly. If you don’t have pre-crushed ice available, then you can crush your ice in the blender or, even better, a food processor.
So, now that you know how to make a mint julep, I suggest that you raise a toast to America’s birthday with this tasty drink. Mr. Cocktail and I plan on celebrating by donning our matching American flag pants, and cranking up the Skynard. Happy Birthday America. Freebird!!
Comments
The mint julep is a very classy drink, I like it for the 4th. I also like the Hop Skip and Go Naked (vodka/ beer lemon-lime punch), it gets me in the mood for a good 4th of July weekend too! Happy 4th!
Great idea...tying the 4th of July to a special and well recognized drink!
great idea for a drink, sounds delicious! Go USA!!
Nothing says 'America' or 'Americans' like copious amounts of bourbon. Thanks for the drink; much love to Lady Liberty.
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