mmmm, basilly!
I’m not a fan of the Kentucky Derby or horse racing in general. However, knowing my bff’s sister who is a jockey plus my own sister who is a horse whisperer, I figure I’m definitely six degrees of separation away from the winning horse. It’s simple math, really. In honor of the Kentucky Derby this year, I’ve created my own version of the mint julep and added basil. I love basil and usually have live basil on my countertop year round. My potted applemint from last year is already growing like gangbusters so after purchasing a bottle of Bulleit bourbon, I had all the ingredients I needed!
bourbon, basil, mint, ice, simple syrup and DONE
To make your simple syrup, take half a cup of sugar and one cup of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer until all the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the stove and set aside so it can cool, because no one wants to drink a hot julep. The next step is muddling.
muddle me this
Grab a partner (you know, because interaction is more fun) and make them muddle together 2 jiggers of simple syrup with 8 mint leaves and 4 basil leaves.
mr. muddler
Pour 4 full jiggers of bourbon in with the rest of the contents of the shaker. (Yes, it’s true, the julep is a stiffy so make sure you stay put if you plan on having one!) Stir and strain into two ice filled glasses. You are welcome!
you can see tiny flecks of mint and basil, so yummy!
Basil Mint Julep
Prep time: 10 minutes
Makes: 2 drinks
Print This Recipe!
- Cocktail shaker
- Cocktail strainer
- Muddler
- 4 jiggers of bourbon (that’s 6 ounces, y’all)
- 2 jiggers of simple syrup (3 ounces – see below for simple syrup recipe)
- 4 basil leaves
- 8 mint leaves
- 3 cups crushed ice
- Add simple syrup plus mint and basil leaves to cocktail shaker.
- Muddle until well crushed. Add bourbon to cocktail shaker contents and stir well.
- Fill cocktail glasses with ice and strain julep into glasses.
- Serve with a sprig of mint or basil, or both!
We watched the Kentucky Derby Mint-Julepless yesterday. However, we were sipping them last year. We’ve decided to wait for a silver cup before we make them again. 🙂
Hi Lea Ann! I thought I was missing out on the silver cup too, but Alton Brown says glass insulates better, check it out: http://altonbrown.com/mint-julep/ The silver cups are definitely more interesting-looking than plain old glass though! -Michele
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