Mint Julep

A Mint Julep is traditionally made with four ingredients: mint leaf, bourbon, sugar syrup and crushed ice. Traditionally, spearmint is the mint of choice used in Southern states, and in Kentucky in particular.

Ingredients

Syrup

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 ounces bourbon or sour mash whiskey
• Mint sprigs (for garnish)

Mint Julep

• 2 ounces bourbon or sour mash whiskey
• Mint sprigs, for garnish

Instructions

Syrup

1. Boil sugar, water and mint leaves together in a small pan until the sugar dissolves and the liquid is clear. Set the syrup aside; it will steep as it cools. Strain it before using it. Refrigerated, the syrup keeps indefinitely.

Mint Julep

1. Spoon 1 to 2 teaspoons, or more to taste, of the mint syrup into the bottom of an 8-ounce glass. Fill the glass halfway with cracked ice, and pour 2 ounces of bourbon over it. Stir gently to blend, and garnish with mint.