Mint Julep with Mint Simple Syrup
Happy Derby Day! We rarely need an excuse to drink a mint julep – in fact, you can find Nicci drinking this classic bourbon and mint concoction just about any time of the year.
We were inspired by our recent trip to Kentucky where we visited a few bourbon distilleries and swung by Churchill Downs, so in honor of Derby Day 2018, check out our take on a classic julep.
In our recipe, we create a mint-infused simple syrup to craft a crisp, clean cocktail – garnished with a few sprigs of the green stuff, of course.
Just about any good bourbon will do in this recipe. Woodford Reserve is the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby and is Coach W’s personal favorite, while Nicci prefers Maker’s Mark. This syrup will keep in a sealed container in the fridge for about a week.
Cheers!
Mint Julep with Homemade Mint Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1.5 tablespoon Homemade mint simple syrup see below
- 1.5 ounce Bourbon
- Ice
- Mint leaves to garnish
Instructions
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Combine mint simple syrup and bourbon in a glass with ice.
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Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
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Enjoy!
Mint Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1 cup Water
- 1 cup Fresh mint packed into measuring cup
Instructions
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Rinse the mint leaves in cold water to remove any residue. Leave the leaves whole.
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Combine sugar and water in the sauce pan. Place pan on stove over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Once boiling, turn off heat and stir in mint leaves. Let mixture cook for 30 minutes, until syrup takes on a slightly green tinge.
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Strain through a mesh colander to remove the leaves.