Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz bitter lemon soda
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice
- Lemon wedges and mint sprigs for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Julep cup or highball glass
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh mint leaves with the simple syrup until the mint is fragrant and slightly bruised.
2. Add the bourbon, bitter lemon soda, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Fill a julep cup or highball glass with crushed ice.
5. Strain the cocktail into the glass over the ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of fresh mint.
7. Serve and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: N/A
Temperature:
Serve chilled
Serving size:
1 cocktail
Nutritional information:
Calories: 215
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 10mg
Sugar: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- If you don't have bitter lemon soda, you can substitute with regular lemon soda or lemonade.
- If you don't have fresh lemon juice, you can use bottled lemon juice.
- If you don't have simple syrup, you can make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Variations:
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon and add more bitter lemon soda or lemonade.
- For a sweeter version, add more simple syrup to taste.
- For a stronger mint flavor, add more fresh mint leaves or muddle them for longer.
Tips and tricks:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don't over-muddle the mint leaves, as this can release bitter flavors.
- Use crushed ice for a more authentic julep experience.
- If you don't have a cocktail shaker, you can use a large mason jar with a lid.
Storage instructions:
This cocktail is best served fresh and should not be stored.
Reheating instructions:
N/A
Presentation ideas:
Serve the cocktail in a julep cup or highball glass with a lemon wedge and a sprig of fresh mint for garnish.
Garnishes:
Lemon wedges and fresh mint sprigs
Pairings:
This cocktail pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, and spicy dishes.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Corn on the cob
- Potato salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cocktail is too strong, add more bitter lemon soda or lemonade to taste.
- If the cocktail is too sweet, add more fresh lemon juice or a splash of club soda to balance the flavors.
Food safety advice:
Drink responsibly and never drink and drive.
Food history:
The mint julep is a classic Southern cocktail that originated in the late 18th century. It was traditionally made with bourbon, sugar, water, and fresh mint, and served in a silver or pewter cup.
Flavor profiles:
This cocktail is sweet, tart, and refreshing, with a strong bourbon flavor and a hint of mint.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this cocktail as a refreshing summer drink or as a pre-dinner cocktail.
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: Sour, Citrusy, Herbal, Refreshing