Cool Off This Summer with a Mint Julep
Written on August 3, 2009 – 1:16 pm | by admin
Mint juleps are the perfect summer cocktail. Before there was air conditioning, there were mint juleps, and this frosty drink is a timeless classic. Its simplicity and elegance make it a good choice for entertaining as well.
This drink originates in the American South, and is built around the idea of cooling off on a hot day. While there are variations, the drink usually consists of ice (crushed or shaved), bourbon, mint leaves, and sugar.
To make a mint julep, muddle (stir and gently bruise) about six fresh mint leaves with sugar (1 tsp) or simple syrup in the bottom of a glass. Fill the glass almost to the brim with finely crushed or shaved ice, then add 3 oz of bourbon. Stir gently but thoroughly, and garnish with a sprig of mint.
Variations on the mint julep may add a splash of rum or a dusting of powdered sugar. Marry the mint julep to another summer favorite, and add the juice of a fresh lemon and a lemon wedge garnish for a Mint Julep Lemonade. And for those who don’t drink alcohol, a Virgin Mint Julep can be mixed by substituting cola for the bourbon.