Get your thirst on with the Mint Julep—the ultimate drink to tantalize your taste buds!
Yo bro, feeling parched after crushing your workout on a hot summer day? Meet the mint julep.
There’s nothing more refreshing than this classic.
This legendary cocktail is a staple of the Kentucky Derby and has been quenching thirsts for over a century.
In this article, we’re going to dig deep into the history of this bad boy, break down the key ingredients you need to whip one up, and give you a step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect drink.
So kick back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of the Julep, bro!
History and its association with the Kentucky Derby
This cocktail has been a legend in the US since the early 1800s.
Back then, it was made with brandy or rum and was a morning tonic to ease upset stomachs. But over time, bourbon became the king of the mint julep game.
Fast forward to 1938, when the Kentucky Derby swapped its official drink from the whiskey sour to the mint julep, and boom—an iconic duo was born.
Now, every year, over 120,000 of these bad boys get downed at the Derby, with peeps sipping from those sick silver julep cups that make this drink so damn legendary.
Ingredients needed
To make a classic Mint Julep, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 oz. bourbon
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 4-6 sprigs of fresh mint
- Crushed ice
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by placing the mint leaves and simple syrup in a julep cup or glass.
- Gently muddle the mint leaves to release their oils.
- Add the bourbon to the glass and stir to mix.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
- Stir the drink until the glass becomes frosted.
- Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint, and enjoy!
How to serve and garnish a Mint Julep
Listen up, bro.
Traditionally, mint juleps get served up in those badass silver julep cups, but don’t sweat it if you don’t have one on hand. Any glass will do, as long as it’s nice and frosty and packed with crushed ice.
To take it to the next level, toss a sprig of fresh mint on top of the ice and sprinkle that baby with some powdered sugar for an extra kick of sweetness.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Tips for making it incredible
- Use fresh mint: The mint is the star of the show in a Mint Julep, so make sure to use fresh mint leaves.
- Use good-quality bourbon: The quality of the bourbon will make a big difference in the drink’s taste. Choose a high-quality bourbon for the best results.
- Don’t over-muddle the mint: Be gentle when muddling the mint leaves to avoid releasing any bitter flavors.
- Use crushed ice: Crushed ice is essential for a Mint Julep as it helps create a frosty, refreshing drink.
A New Take on the Julep: Meet the High Tide by Colin Asare-Appiah
Co-author of “Black Mixcellence: A Comprehensive Guide to Black Mixology”, mixologist Colin Asare-Appiah has put a new spin on this classic.
How to Make the High Tide
Ingredients
- 4 mint sprigs
- Crushed ice
- 2 oz. rum
- 1 oz. liqueur
- 2 oz. honeydew melon (sliced)
- A pinch of Himalayan pink salt
- a pinch of cracked black pepper.
Method: Gently muddle the mint. Add all ingredients to a tin and shake. Strain over ice and add a garnish.
Conclusion: Why this should be your go-to summer drink
To wrap it up, bro, the Mint Julep is the ultimate thirst-quencher that’s been keeping us chilled since way back.
Whether you’re at the Derby or just kicking it back at home, there’s no better way to cool down on a hot summer day than with this iconic cocktail. So why not give it a go and whip up your own Mint Julep?
Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Cheers, my dude!