Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Cocktail: Mint Julep

This past Saturday was Kentucky Derby Day, and as everyone knows the trade mark of the Derby is the Mint Julep, well and the hats.  I ventured into the realm of cocktails this weekend and was very pleased and maybe a little scared of how much I enjoyed this drink...

Mint Julep
1 part Mint Simple Syrup
1 part water
1 part Bourbon or Whiskey

For the simple syrup: combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a small pan, boil for 5 minutes.  While boiling pull 1/2cup of mint leaves (usually 1 bunch) off the stem and drop in the bottom of a cup or pitcher.  After the 5 minutes are up pour the syrup over the mint leaves and muddle (basically pound with a spoon)  cover the mixture and put in the fridge for at least 1 hour, up to over night.  When time to serve strain the mint leaves out of the simple syrup. 

I find it easier to mix a pitcher of cocktails at a time as opposed to one cocktail at a time, this way you get to enjoy the party and not spend all your time mixing drinks.  In a large pitcher combine 1 cup mint syrup, 1 cup water and 1 cup whiskey (I recommend Evan Williams), pour into cups with ice and garnish with a fresh mint leaf.

The sweetened minty whiskey is so refreshing (and strong) on a warm southern afternoon.  I hope you enjoy, and remember drink responsibly!

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