Mint Julep season is upon us again.
As fans of the Kentucky Derby prepare to gather at Churchill Downs for the 151st event this Saturday, those hosting watch parties at home can whip up this iconic cocktail, which is synonymous with the Derby in Louisville.
So what’s the secret to avoiding common pitfalls and crafting the perfect mint julep that keeps guests wanting more?
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Celebrity chef Paula Deen from Savannah, Georgia, emphasizes that creating a great julep begins with the right mindset.
“We don’t mess around with Mint Juleps down here,” Deen shared with Fox News Digital ahead of this year’s Derby. “First things first, we need quality Kentucky bourbon.”
Mint juleps are, as Deen said, “quite simple to make.” She highlighted the importance of using crushed ice instead of large cubes, as it really enhances the refreshing quality of the drink.
“Muddling fresh mint with sugar releases aromatic oils, creating the ideal flavor,” she explained.
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Derek Brown, a cocktail expert and author based in Washington, DC, points out that many people mistakenly conflate the mint julep with mojitos.
One common blunder when making mint juleps is mistaking them for another popular cocktail.
According to Brown, “Most often, people think of mint juleps as somehow resembling mojitos, perhaps using ready-made mint syrup that’s neon green.” He cautioned against overloading on mint, as it can become bitter.
“Just a touch of simple syrup is all you need,” he advised.
Deen suggests preparing the simple syrup ahead of time. “Make it in advance with some crushed mint to cut down on cocktail prep when you’re entertaining,” she said.
Aesthetics matter too, Brown noted, adding, “The visual appeal of the drink is crucial.”
Bourbon typically takes center stage, but mint juleps can be crafted with various spirits ranging from rye whiskey and brandy to champagne, Brown added. “You can even go for a non-alcoholic spirit or mix half alcohol and half non-alcoholic,” he noted.
As for Deen, she prefers Blanton’s Kentucky Bourbon. She believes that “beautiful decanters and stoppers are perfect for elevating your Derby decor.”
One last piece of advice: enjoy your mint julep slowly. Brown emphasizes that they’re best savored, not rushed. “Take your time and sip it,” he advised.
For anyone curious, here’s Deen’s mint julep recipe.
Ingredients
Crushed ice
1 cup of water
1 cup of sugar
Recipe instructions follow.
1 bunch of mint
Bourbon
(Prep time: 3 minutes, Cooking time: 3 minutes, Serves: 3)
Directions
1. In a small pot, stir together sugar and water.
2. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Infuse mint in the simple syrup.
4. Strain mint from the syrup and allow it to cool.
5. Fill a julep glass with crushed ice.
6. Pour 1 tablespoon of simple mint syrup over the ice and top with bourbon.
7. Garnish with mint leaves.
