One of the herbs I’m growing on my deck this spring is Mint. Mint is commonly used in Middle Eastern food, especially on lamb and in tea. Here in the US we’re more used to seeing Mint used in sweet things like candy and ice cream.
Today I want to share my favorite way to use Mint and tell you how to make one. It’s a Mint Julep. It’s so simple to make, consisting of only four ingredients in its classic form. I add a slice of Lemon to mine, but it’s not required.
- Mint leaves (about 3-6 per glass)
- A good Kentucky Bourbon (I prefer Maker’s Mark but use whatever you like)
- Sugar
- Water
- Lemon slice (optional)
Directions
In a tall glass, add two – four teaspoons of sugar and the Mint leaves. Using the handle end of a wooden spoon, lightly bruise the leaves into the sugar. This will extract some of the oils and scent from the Mint leaves.
Next add just enough water to dissolve the sugar, probably about a tablespoon or two. You could use a simple syrup instead, but I find that sugar and water works fine.
Fill the glass with crushed ice. Add your bourbon. I use enough bourbon to fill the glass roughly half way, but adjust for whatever your tastes may be.
Finally add water & lemon slice.
Stir and enjoy.
