strawberry mint julep
I’m not sure if attending the Kentucky Derby is an actual bucket list item or if I just like participating in the extravagance from a distance. Probably the latter. I’m antisocial.
Maybe antisocial is a bit strong, but I don’t love crowds, and the Derby is a crowd and a half. Likely wouldn’t love the tight squeeze of bodies in a relatively compact arena.
Nonetheless, this weekend is Derby Day, and Derby Day means mint juleps. Our classic cocktail gets a sweet berry kiss with a strawberry twist. Refreshing, light, but bold, with speckles of crushed mint and a little simple syrup sweetness. Bourbon lends the kick a glass needs – Kentucky bourbon is preferable, of course!
Easy to make and lovely to sip while kicked back on the couch or mingling with your party crowd. I’ll sure as shit be comfy in my house with one at my fist this weekend.
Berry Minty
The traditional mint julep, the Derby’s official cocktail since the 1930s, contains a simple trio of mint, simple syrup, and bourbon, with a ton of crushed ice to cap it off. Here, we add some fresh strawberries just because we fucken can.
We have two options for infusing the drink with the mint and berries. The first, and classic, is muddling the berries and mint with simple syrup in the bottom of a glass. Pick your favorite. Smoosh the ingredients real well until the texture is jammy and juicy.
Method number two: combine the trio – berries, mint, syrup – in a food processor or small blender and whip until smooth. I like this a bit better because I like a stronger flavor infusion, and pureeing affords just that.
Pour the puree into the cup, fill halfway with ice, then add your bourbon. Stir gently to combine. Top off with lots more crushed ice, a few sprigs of mint, and a couple berries. And you’ve got your julep!
Throw your parties, hedge your bets, and sip your cocktails, but do all three responsibly. Have a great weekend and be safe, friends!
Tried this recipe out? Leave a rating and comment below with your thoughts, and don’t forget to come say hi on Instagram and show me what you made!
Juleps for you-leps:
strawberry mint julep
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup strawberries, stems removed
- 4-5 fresh mint leaves
- 2-3 tsp simple syrup (use to taste)
- 2 oz bourbon
- mint leaves and fresh strawberries, to garnish
Instructions
- For a stronger strawberry and mint flavor, combine the berries, mint leaves, and simple syrup in a food processor and blitz until smooth. Pour into your favorite rocks glass. Or: muddle the trio together in the bottom of your glass.
- Fill the cup halfway with crushed ice, then pour in the bourbon. Stir. Top with more crushed ice. Garnish with mint leaves and fresh strawberries.
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