The Mint Julep is a classic American cocktail that is known for being the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. This refreshing drink has a long history dating back to the 18th century and is made with a simple blend of mint, sugar, water and bourbon. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make a refreshing Mint Julep.
Ingredients:
- 8-10 mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 2 1/2 shots of bourbon
- Water
- Crushed ice
Equipment Required:
- A glass of Julep or a tall glass
- A pestle
- A bar spoon
Step by Step:
Step 1: Start by picking 8-10 fresh mint leaves. Make sure the mint is fresh as this will make a big difference to the final taste of your Mint Julep. Fresh mint will give your drink the refreshing, vibrant flavor that is the hallmark of a well-made Mint Julep.
Step 2: Place the mint leaves in the glass. Add a tablespoon of sugar. The sugar will help extract the mint's essential oils, intensifying the mint flavor in the drink.
Step 3: Use the pestle and mortar to gently crush the mint and sugar together in the bottom of the glass. You want to be careful not to tear or crush the mint, but just to release the essential oils. This is called mashing and is a crucial step in creating a Mint Julep.
Step 4: Add the bourbon to the glass. Bourbon is the base spirit of Mint Julep and gives the drink its strong, robust flavor. The amount of bourbon you add can be adjusted to your personal taste, but the classic recipe calls for 2 1/2 shots.
Step 5: Fill the glass with crushed ice. The ice not only cools the drink, but also helps dilute the bourbon and sugar, smoothing out the flavors and making the drink more enjoyable.
Step 6: Use the bar spoon to stir the drink. This will help blend all the ingredients together and ensure the mint and sugar flavor is well distributed throughout the drink.
Step 7: Add more crushed ice to fill the glass. This will give your Mint Julep the classic and refreshing look.
Step 8: Decorate your Mint Julep with a few extra mint leaves on top. Not only will this make your drink more enticing, but it will also smell fresh and inviting each time you lift the glass to your lips.
Step 9: Serve your Mint Julep with a short straw. This will allow you to sip the drink from the bottom of the glass, ensuring you get the full flavor of the mint, sugar and bourbon in every sip.
So there you have it - a step-by-step guide on how to make a refreshing Mint Julep. This classic drink is perfect for a hot summer day or watching the Kentucky Derby. With practice, you'll be able to make a perfect Mint Julep every time. Remember, the key to a good Mint Julep is the quality of the ingredients, so always go for fresh mint and good bourbon. Cheers!
