Mint Juleps, Mock Juleps, and Good Times

This weekend will be a lot of fun for many people as the 139th running of the Kentucky Derby is Saturday, and Cinco de Mayo is Sunday. Times to get together and celebrate are always welcome calendar events. Even if you can't attend a major event like the Kentucky Derby, you can still plan or attend a Derby party at home or at a local bar or hangout. Cinco de May celebrations at Mexican-style restaurants will be the hot ticket this weekend, and you can also plan a get-together at home with your family and friends.

While most people have a favorite recipe for the Cinco de Mayo-classic Margarita, many people have never even tried a Mint Julep, the official beverage of the 'most exciting two minutes in sports'. In case you'd like to give it a try, we're including a great cocktail and mocktail recipe for the Kentucky Derby classic Mint Julep. Enjoy!

Mint Julep
                                                          
2 ounces Kentucky bourbon
1 tablespoon Simple Syrup (see below)
Fresh mint sprigs
Crushed or shaved ice
Silver julep cup (chilled) or substitute a glass tumbler

Simple Syrup for Mint Julep
Boil 2 cups water with 2 cups sugar for about five minutes. Combine with a handful of fresh mint sprigs and refrigerate overnight.

Muddle a few mint leaves in bottom of julep cup. Fill with ice and add 1 tablespoon simple syrup and 2 ounces Kentucky bourbon. Stir rapidly and garnish with a sprig of mint.



Mock Julep

10-15 sprigs of fresh mint
1 liter ginger ale
1 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
Crushed or shaved ice

Rinse mint leaves and separate any thick stems. Chill ginger ale. Mix lemon juice, sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat until sugar completely dissolves, then chill the mixture. Combine sugary lemon juice mixture and mint leaves (reserve some for garnish). Refrigerate for at least an hour.

Mix ice, ginger ale, and lemon-mint mixture in a large pitcher. Garnish silver Julep cups (or substitute a glass tumbler) with mint and serve. Makes 4-6 servings.