Down one (or three) of these refreshing drinks on a hot summer day.
Our favorite Good Eats guru teaches us the secret to a delightfully perfect Mint Julep.
Summer means backyard BBQs, sitting on the porch until it gets dark out, and relaxation. What better way to do all those things than with a mint julep in your hand!
A mint julep is a classic American South cocktail that typically contains Kentucky bourbon whiskey. It’s an especially popular drink during the Kentucky Derby.
Making one is simple—it’s really all in the technique. Alton Brown shows us an easy one that will make you the star bartender at your next party.
First, you have to muddle the mint and sugar. Alton makes a great point that you don’t need to spend extra dollars or time on superfine sugar. Just throw some regular sugar in the blender to grind it down a bit. The reason you want superfine sugar is so it will be easier to muddle the mint without leaving large chunks in your drink.
Next loosen things up with a splash of seltzer water. Add some crushed ice and the right amount of bourbon. Top it off with some seltzer water and a sprig of mint. DRINK & ENJOY!
Mint Julep Ingredients:
- 10 mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
- 1½ teaspoons superfine sugar
- 2½ ounces Kentucky bourbon whiskey
- Seltzer water
- Crushed ice
