Southern Living Classic Mint Julep Recipes

Steps:

• In a tall crystal tumbler, gently bruise the 12 mint leaves, and muddle with sugar and a dash of bourbon.
• Fill the glass halfway with cracked ice, and agitate with a spoon.
• Pack the rest of the glass with ice and fill with the rest of the bourbon and equal parts fresh water and carbonated water.
• Garnish with mint sprig. Twist a lemon zest over the leaves, and dust with powdered sugar. Serve with two short straws.

Steps:

• To make the Mint Simple Syrup, bring the sugar and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Boil, stirring often, for 5 minutes or until sugar dissolves.
• Remove from heat, add mint, and let cool completely.
• Pour syrup into a glass jar, then cover and chill 24 hours. Remove the mint and discard.
• To make the drink, place mint leaves and Mint Simple Syrup in a chilled julep cup. Gently press the leaves against the cup with the back of a spoon to release flavors.
• Pack the cup tightly with crushed ice and pour the bourbon over ice. Insert a 4-inch cocktail straw, place mint sprig directly next to straw, and sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
• Serve immediately.

Steps:

• Place mint in blender; add water and sugar.
• Blend until leaves disappear, add ice and bourbon; blend a few seconds.
• Pour into frosted glass or julep cup which has been filled with finely chopped ice.
• Stir and decorate with a sprig of mint.
• Serves 1.
• Note: Serve with a short straw that is no taller than the mint, so one enjoys the aroma as well as the taste.