Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1 cup vodka
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice
- Mint sprigs and bacon strips for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Cocktail shaker
- Fine mesh strainer
- Saucepan
- Mason jar
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and let it cool.
2. In a mason jar, pour the vodka and add the bacon strips. Cover the jar and let it sit for at least 4 hours or overnight to infuse.
3. In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let it cool.
4. In a cocktail shaker, add the mint leaves and muddle them until fragrant.
5. Add 2 ounces of the bacon-infused vodka and 1 ounce of the simple syrup to the shaker. Fill the shaker with crushed ice and shake vigorously for 10 seconds.
6. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice.
7. Garnish with a mint sprig and a bacon strip.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Infusing time: 4 hours or overnight
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Temperature:
Room temperature
Serving size:
1 cocktail
Nutritional information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Bourbon or whiskey can be used instead of vodka.
- Agave nectar or honey can be used instead of simple syrup.
- Lemon or lime juice can be added for a citrusy twist.
Variations:
- Add a splash of club soda for a fizzy drink.
- Use maple syrup instead of simple syrup for a smoky flavor.
- Substitute the mint leaves with basil or cilantro for a different herbaceous taste.
Tips and tricks:
- Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor.
- Strain the bacon-infused vodka through a fine mesh strainer to remove any bacon bits.
- Use fresh mint leaves for a more vibrant taste.
- Double the recipe to make a pitcher for a crowd.
Storage instructions:
Store the bacon-infused vodka in a cool, dark place for up to 1 month.
Reheating instructions:
N/A
Presentation ideas:
Serve the cocktail in a mason jar or a silver cup for a classic look.
Garnishes:
Mint sprigs and bacon strips
Pairings:
- Fried chicken
- Biscuits and gravy
- Deviled eggs
Suggested side dishes:
- Mac and cheese
- Coleslaw
- Cornbread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cocktail is too strong, add more simple syrup.
- If the cocktail is too sweet, add more vodka.
Food safety advice:
- Always use clean and sanitized equipment when making cocktails.
- Store the bacon-infused vodka in a sealed container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
The julep is a classic cocktail that originated in the southern United States in the 18th century. It was traditionally made with bourbon, sugar, and mint.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, smoky, sweet, herbaceous
Serving suggestions:
Serve the cocktail as a pre-dinner drink or as a refreshing summer drink.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A
Taste: Smoky, Salty, Spicy, Herbal, Refreshing