Classic mint juleps get an update with molasses-y muscovado sugar and lime.
Prep Time: 5 minutesminutes
Total: 5 minutesminutes
Servings: 1drink
Ingredients
Muscovado Mint Syrup (enough for many drinks):
1cuplight or dark muscovado (or brown)sugar(7 ounces / 200 grams)
1cupwater
leavesfrom 1 large bunch mint (1 cup packed)
The Julep (makes 1):
several mint leaves, plus one or two pretty sprigs for garnish
1/4cupbourbon (such as Elijah Craig or Four Roses)
2tablespoonsmuscovado mint syrup (above)
1 1/2teaspoonsfresh lime juice
ice (crushed if you like)
sparkling water (optional, if using cubed ice)
Instructions
Make the syrup:
In a medium pot, bring the sugar and water to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Remove from the heat and add the mint. Cover and let steep 20 minutes. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve and into a heat-proof container. Let cool. Cover and chill until cold, 2 hours. (Can be made up to a few weeks ahead and stored airtight in the refrigerator.)
Make the juleps:
Place the mint leaves in a cocktail shaker or jar and crush lightly. Add the bourbon, muscovado syrup, lime juice, and a few ice cubes. Stir or shake until cold, 30 seconds, then strain into a glass packed with crushed ice. Top with more crushed ice, garnish with the mint sprig, and serve. (If using cubed ice, top the drink of with a spritz of fizzy water.)
Notes
Adapted from Brown Sugar Kitchen.I recommend a smooth bourbon for these drinks. Elijah Craig is quite affordable and tastier than other bourbons in its price range. Four Roses comes recommended by Brown Sugar Kitchen.I've made the syrup with both an unrefined muscobado sugar by Alter Eco, and a light muscovado sugar. Light or dark brown sugar will work, too; the darker the sugar, the more lovely molasses flavor and deep color the finished drink will have.For an extra floral variation, try the vanilla version below. Variation: Muscovado Vanilla Mint Juleps Add half of a vanilla bean to the syrup along with the sugar.Nutritional values are based on one drink.