Mint Julep (Southern Style)

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Servings: 1 Difficulty: Intermediate
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A classic, chilled bourbon cocktail with fresh mint and shaved ice
Mint Julep (Southern Style recipe image
Mint Julep (Southern Style recipe image
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Mint Julep (Southern Style)

Author: chefs-mate Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 1 Calories: 161.1

Description

This Southern-style Mint Julep is the quintessential springtime cocktail, famously associated with the Kentucky Derby. It combines the rich warmth of bourbon with the cooling crispness of finely shaved ice and the aromatic freshness of mint. Unlike many modern cocktails, the mint here is primarily for scent, creating an olfactory experience that enhances every sip. The drink is stirred until the silver cup or glass is heavily frosted, ensuring a smooth, icy texture that mellows the spirit. It is an elegant, refreshing choice for warm afternoons or special celebrations, requiring only a few simple ingredients to achieve a sophisticated and traditional flavor profile.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. In a silver julep cup or a 12 oz glass, dissolve the powdered sugar with the water using a bar spoon or stirrer until smooth.
  2. Fill the cup with finely shaved ice, packing it down slightly.
  3. Pour the bourbon whiskey over the ice.
  4. Stir gently but continuously until the outside of the cup becomes heavily frosted and frosty, adding more shaved ice if necessary to maintain height.
  5. Arrange 5 or 6 sprigs of fresh mint around the rim, positioning them so the tops extend about 2 inches above the rim.
  6. Serve immediately with short straws, encouraging the drinker to inhale the mint aroma while sipping.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 161.1kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.0g0%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 0.0mg0%
Total Carbohydrate 1.2g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 1.2g
Protein 0.0g0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

The mint in a traditional Mint Julep is intended for its aroma rather than its taste. The fragrance enhances the drinking experience as you bring the glass to your lips.

For best results, use a silver cup or pre-chilled metal cup to achieve the characteristic frost on the exterior. If using glass, ensure it is very cold.

Finely shaved ice is crucial for the proper texture and dilution of the drink. Coarse ice cubes will not work as well.

Avoid holding the glass with your hand while stirring, as body heat will melt the ice and prevent proper frosting.

This recipe is adapted from "Old Mr. Boston's Deluxe Bartender's Guide."

Keywords: mint julep, bourbon, cocktail, southern, spring, kentucky derby, shaved ice, refreshing, classic, alcoholic, drink, mint, ice, silver cup, traditional, aromatic, chilled, bartender, simple syrup, powdered sugar
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