Here's the easiest mint julep recipe you can make at home for the Kentucky Derby
Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2021 and has been updated.
It’s Kentucky Derby time! And that means we get to see lots of colorful hats and fashions, celebrities who will enjoy the race — and did I forget the actual horses who will compete at Churchill Downs?
That means you might be at home making the classic bourbon cocktail known as a Mint Julep.
If you’re not experienced at making cocktails, fear not. That’s what I’m here for — and I have made this recipe every year with much success, which is basically just like this version from Real Simple (and when I say basically, I mean that I ignore the measurements, eyeball it and taste along the way):
- Take a tall glass, mix some sugar with a little water at the bottom (if you want to go a step further to make a simple syrup by boiling water and sugar, go ahead! Here’s a good recipe).
- Real Simple calls for you to “Clap … 6 mint leaves in your palms to release the herb’s oils, then add them.” I’ve never tried the clapping part, but I will this year!
- Put some ice in your glass (the traditional one calls for crushed ice).
- Pour bourbon on top.
- Garnish with mint.
- Stir!
That’s it. Cheers! Drink responsibly, Derby fans.
(Here are some other recipes, including for some non-Mint Julep drinks.)