How To Make A Mint Julep

If you are from the South, you probably already know how to make a Mint Julep. This cold and refreshing drink is very popular in the region on a sunny afternoon and is a must for celebrating the Kentucky Derby. The mint julep is a fairly straightforward drink to make. The best way to make a mint julep everyone will rave about is to get the perfect balance of sweetness, alcohol and cool minty flavor. Although a true mint julep is served in a silver mug, it will be equally well-received in a Tom Collins glass or any glass you happen to have at home. Even in a paper cup! Everyone loves a good mint julep on a hot summer day.

You will need:

• One tsp. powdered sugar
• Two tsp. water
• Four fresh sprigs of mint
• Two and half oz. bourbon whiskey
• Crushed ice
• Serving glass
• Spoon

1. Prepare the mint. Place the powdered sugar, water and three sprigs of mint in a serving glass. Bruise the mint leaves with the back of a spoon to help release some of the flavor. This step can be done in advance to give the flavor more time to infuse.
2. Add the alcohol. Fill the glass up with crushed ice and then pour the bourbon on top of the ice. Mix everything gently, topping off with more ice if needed.
3. Garnish and serve. Place one mint sprig on top of the mint julep as a garnish. Serve as cold as possible.

Tips:

• Add more powdered sugar if your prefer sweeter drinks.
• Spearmint is the best mint to use to make a mint julep, but any type of fresh mint will work.
• Three teaspoons of simple syrup can be used in place of the powdered sugar and water.
• Use Kentucky style bourbon for the most authentic flavor.