The first time Mint Julep was mentioned in 1803 was in a Virginia farmer’s letter. Although the origin of the Julep name is unknown, it most likely comes from the Arabic word “Golab”—rose water, which was used to make the medications more palatable.
At that time, the drink was different from the one we know today, and the reason for that is that ice was not readily available. That changed in the mid-1800s; the first refrigeration system was built in 1834, and the commercial ice-making machine was invented in 1854.
Using crushed ice is an important part of enjoying the Mint Julep, as it melts faster and alters the taste while sipping it.
Yield: 1
Mint Julep
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 8-10 mint leaves
Instructions
- Muddle the mint leaves lightly in a rocks glass or Julep cup with simple syrup.
- Be careful not to break the mint leaves; they will release a bitter flavour into the drink.
- Add bourbon and lots of crushed ice, and stir until the glass is slightly frosted on the outside.
- Add more ice.
- Garnish with mint sprig. Slap the mint between the palms of your hands to release the flavour.
- Optional: sprinkle some refined/powdered sugar on the mint.
Notes
Image Mint Julep under Creative Commons
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 204Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 35mgCarbohydrates: 16gFiber: 8gSugar: 6gProtein: 4g
This data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix.
