The traditional drink following the Kentucky Derby where the winner drinks a toast to his horse from a sterling julep cup. This delightful drink is made with simple syrup, mint and bourbon.
The Mint Julep is said to have originated in the early 1800s in Kentucky. It quickly became popular among horse racing fans, and it is now the official drink of the Kentucky Derby which is run the first Saturday in May. The Mint Julep is typically served in a silver julep cup, and it is garnished with a sprig of mint.
The Mint Julep is a simple cocktail to make, but it is important to use fresh ingredients. The bourbon should be high-quality, and the mint should be fresh and flavorful. The Mint Julep is best served immediately, but it can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
Start by combining the sugar and water and boil for 5 minutes, without stirring. Let the mixture cool. Next pour this over a handful of mint. Refrigerate over-night in a closed jar. Remove the mint leaves by straining and continue to refrigerate. This will keep for several weeks and individual juleps may be made as desired.
For each serving, fill an 8 ounce glass with crushed ice. Add one tablespoon of syrup and one tablespoon of water.
Add 2 ounces of bourbon. Stir gently until the glass is frosted. Insert straw and garnish with a sprig of mint. Enjoy!
Recipe
How To Make A Perfect Mint Julep
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 bunch fresh mint sprigs
Crushed ice
Kentucky bourbon
Combine sugar and water and boil for 5 minutes, without stirring. Cool. Pour over a handful of mint. Refrigerate over-night in a closed jar. Remove the mint leaves and continue to refrigerate. This will keep for several weeks and individual juleps may be made as desired. For each serving, fill an 8 ounce glass with crushed ice. Add one tablespoon of syrup and one tablespoon of water. Add 2 ounces of bourbon. Stir gently until the glass is frosted. Insert straw and garnish with a sprig of mint.
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