A Mint Julep Please!

If there was ever an occasion to drink a mint julep, it is this Saturday-the first Saturday in May or the day of the Kentucky Derby! I have always, always, always wanted to throw a Kentucky Derby party. I have so many party ideas running around in my head including one activity involving betting on paper horses. Oh, and who could forget the sundresses and hats! You would have to wear a fabulous sundress and hat.

However, April, May and June are super busy months at work for me, so I have yet to throw my Kentucky Derby party. I won't be hosting a party this Saturday, but I might just try my hand at making the drink most often associated with the Derby-a mint julep.

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Below is a great mint julep recipe found in Southern Living. You can also find it here.

Yield: Makes 1 (8-ounce) julep

Ingredients

• 3 fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon Mint Simple Syrup
• Crushed ice
• 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons (1 ounce) bourbon
• 1 (4-inch) cocktail straw or coffee stirrer
• 1 fresh mint sprig
• Powdered sugar (optional)

Preparation

Place mint leaves and Mint Simple Syrup in a chilled julep cup. Gently press leaves against cup with back of spoon to release flavors. Pack cup tightly with crushed ice; pour bourbon over ice. Insert straw, place mint sprig directly next to straw, and serve immediately. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.

Mint Juleps are traditionally served in a silver julep cup (as pictured above). Amazon has a great selection of julep cups varying in price. (Don't forget to check to make sure the julep cups you purchase are meant for drinking. Some are just made for decoration and are not food or drink safe.)

Don't have julep cups. Don't worry-Just be creative! Serve your mint juleps in a mason jar or in any other fun bar glasses you might have! After all, mint juleps are quite stout, so after one you really don't care what kind of glass you are drinking out of! ;)

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