Drinks Archives - A Well Seasoned Kitchen

Lemon Ginger Mocktail – a Non Alcoholic Recipe

Lee Clayton Roper — Sun, 07 Jan 2024 19:19:55 +0000

Are you on the lookout for a refreshing and delicious drink that is both easy to make and alcohol-free? Look no further than my Lemon Ginger Mocktail! This effervescent, luscious drink is a non-alcoholic version of my popular Lemon Ginger Whiskey Cocktail. Honey simple syrup is steeped with rosemary, shaken together with fresh lemon juice and orange bitters (or juice), then topped off with bubbly ginger beer. The result is a fizzy, tangy, slightly fruity mocktail that’s perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, baby showers, or just a treat for yourself.

This post contains referral links for products I recommend. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission on qualified purchases, at no cost to you.

Why This Recipe for Lemon Ginger Mocktails Works

A few years ago, the challenge of crafting both a cocktail and a non-alcoholic drink for a cooking class I was teaching sparked my creativity. Eager to feature my ever-popular Lemon Ginger Whiskey Cocktail, I began with the foundational elements of that drink and replaced the alcohol with the bubbly goodness of ginger beer, and the result was this deeply flavorful mocktail. Here are the reasons why this recipe works:

Refreshing flavors. The key flavors in this mocktail are spicy ginger, zesty lemon, and earthy rosemary, which together create a bold, deep, and refreshing beverage.
Honey rosemary infusion. Steeping rosemary in honey simple syrup adds a layer of complexity, bringing herbal richness that complements the citrusy and spicy elements.
Playful fizz and tang. The effervescence of bubbly ginger beer not only adds a playful element but also contributes a lively, fizzy texture. The hint of tanginess from the lemon juice enhances the overall drinking experience.
Versatile. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a family gathering, a baby shower, or simply participating in dry January, this Lemon Ginger Mocktail is a versatile beverage that suits a variety of occasions.
Easy prep. With a straightforward preparation process, this mocktail is accessible to both seasoned mixologists and those new to cocktail crafting. The combination of readily available ingredients makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Visual appeal. Beyond its delicious taste, the Lemon Ginger Mocktail sits pretty in the glass. The effervescent bubbles and the citrusy hues make it an inviting addition to any drink lineup.
Proven recipe. I’m proud to say that I’ve received fan mail from cooking class students who made this recipe at home and received rave reviews from their guests!

Ingredients needed for this Non-alcoholic Lemon Ginger Drink

Here’s all you’ll need to create this refreshing drink – and the good news is, other than the bitters, these ingredients will be available at your local grocery store:

Honey
Fresh Rosemary
Fresh lemons
Lemon or orange bitters (make sure they’re non-alcoholic) – can be omitted, or substitute a splash of fresh orange juice
Ginger beer (I like Q brand, regular or light)

How to Make Lemon and Ginger Mocktails

Here’s how you create this easy mocktail recipe:

Prepare the rosemary-infused simple syrup.
In a small saucepan, heat the honey, water, and rosemary leaves over medium-low heat, stirring, just until the honey is dissolved. Remove from heat, cover and allow to steep (at room temperature) for at least one hour or overnight.
Shake together simple syrup, lemon juice, and bitters.
Place 1/4 cup rosemary-infused simple syrup (with the rosemary) in a cocktail shaker. Add lemon juice and bitters; fill with ice cubes. Shake vigorously for around 10 to 15 seconds.
Strain, add ginger beer, garnish and serve.
Strain the shaker mixture into two cocktail glasses over ice. Divide ginger beer between the glasses. Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a slice of lemon.

Tips for Making the Perfect Mocktail

To ensure that your Lemon Ginger Mocktails turn out perfect every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Use fresh ingredients. Fresh lemon juice will give your mocktails a vibrant and zesty flavor.
Adjust sweetness to taste. Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of simple syrup or lemon juice to make your mocktails sweeter or less sweet.
Don’t skip the shaking. Shaking together the simple syrup, lemon juice, and bitters helps meld those diverse flavors into a unified base that will easily blend with the ginger beer.
Don’t forget the ice. Adding ice is important as this drink tastes best when cold.
Choose the right glass. Make sure to select glasses that will hold the liquid as well as 4 to 5 ice cubes.

Variations and Substitutions for Lemon Ginger Mocktails

Feel free to get creative and customize my recipe to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:

Substitute fresh mint leaves and mint sprigs for the rosemary.
Try other fresh herbs, including basil, in the simple syrup.
Use fresh lime juice and lime slices in place of the lemon.
Use Sweet and Sour mix, club soda, or sparkling water instead of ginger beer.
For more fruitiness, add a tablespoon or two of fresh orange juice. It’s also a good substitute for the bitters.
Add fresh raspberries to the garnish for a pop of contrasting color.

What to Serve with a Lemon Ginger Mocktail

Here are a few suggestions of appetizers to pair with this effervescent drink:

How to Store Lemon Ginger Drinks

Place any leftover rosemary-infused simple syrup in a sealed container and refrigerate; it will last up to one month. Strain out rosemary after 2 to 3 days. It can also be frozen (after straining )for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Lemon Ginger Mocktail FAQs

What’s the difference between ginger beer and ginger ale?

The main difference is in the production process, which results in a different flavor profile. Ginger beer has a bolder, spicier taste with a more pronounced ginger kick, which comes from being brewed and fermented. On the other hand, ginger ale is milder and sweeter, being carbonated without fermentation.

Is there a substitute for rosemary in the honey simple syrup?

Yes, other fresh herbs, including mint or basil, would work well. Alternatively, you can omit the herb for a more straightforward honey flavor.

Can I make a large batch of this mocktail for a party?

Definitely! Simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of servings you need. Prepare a large batch (without the ginger beer) in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

What type of glassware is best for serving a Lemon Ginger Mocktail?

Select a glass that is large enough to hold both the liquid and 4 to 5 (or more) ice cubes. This drink tastes best when cold.

Sweet and Tangy Lemon Ginger Mocktail

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5 from 1 review

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Skip the booze, not the bubbles! Our easy Lemon Ginger Mocktail is the fizzy, flavor-packed star of any party. Tangy lemon, spicy ginger, and a hint of rosemary dance in this alcohol-free delight, topped with bubbly ginger beer. Perfect for dry January, baby showers, family gatherings, or a refreshing “me time” treat.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Rosemary Steeping: 60 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Rosemary-infused Honey Simple Syrup (Makes around 1 1/8 cups)

3/4 cup honey
6 tablespoons water
1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves, plus more for garnish

Lemon Ginger Mocktail

1/4 cup Rosemary-Infused Simple Syrup
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
6 dashes lemon bitters (can also use orange) – optional, as some bitters contain alcohol
7 ounces (7/8 cup) ginger beer, labeled “less sweet” (I like Q brand)
Rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Lemon slices, for garnish

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Instructions

Rosemary-Infused Honey Simple Syrup

In a small saucepan, heat the honey, water, and rosemary leaves over medium-low heat, stirring, just until the honey is dissolved.
Remove from heat, cover, and allow to steep (at room temperature) for at least one hour or overnight.

Lemon Ginger Mocktail

Place 1/4 cup rosemary-infused simple syrup (with the rosemary) in a cocktail shaker. Place the remaining simple syrup in a sealed container and refrigerate for one month for later use. (Can also freeze for up to 3 months.)
Add lemon juice and lemon bitters (if using) to the cocktail shaker. Fill with ice. Shake vigorously for around 10 to 15 seconds.
Strain into two cocktail glasses over ice. Divide ginger beer between the glasses.
Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a slice of lemon.

Notes

Make ahead: the rosemary-infused simple syrup can be prepared up to 1 month ahead and refrigerated. Strain out rosemary after 2 to 3 days. It can also be frozen (after straining )for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Author: Lee Clayton Roper
Category: Mocktails
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 mocktail
Calories: 196
Sugar: 48.4 g
Sodium: 22.1 mg
Fat: 0.1 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 51.1 g
Fiber: 1.5 g
Protein: 0.4 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

The post Lemon Ginger Mocktail – a Non Alcoholic Recipe appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

Brandy Alexander with Ice Cream

Lee Clayton Roper — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 19:16:00 +0000

Frozen Brandy Alexanders with Ice Cream are a memorable, fun and elegant dessert that I’ve been making for years. Traditional brandy Alexander ingredients of brandy and creme de cacao are turned into into a frosty cocktail by swapping out the cream for ice cream. My friends and family love my version of this creamy, sophisticated dessert drink so much that Robert and I served them at our wedding reception!

(Note: this is an older post from 2016 that was significantly updated in 2023.)

This post contains referral links for products I recommend. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission on qualified purchases, at no cost to you.

What is a Brandy Alexander?

Brandy Alexanders are a classic cocktail that’s been around for years, and is a creamy drink comprised of only three ingredients – equal parts of brandy, crème de cacao, and heavy cream.

As the name indicates, the foundation of this timeless luxurious cocktail is brandy, a distilled spirit derived from grapes or other fermented fruit. Its complex flavor profile, ranging from fruity to floral to spicy, adds depth and character to the drink.

However, rich, velvety crème de cacao, a chocolate liqueur, is really the star ingredient, with its subtle chocolatey undertones. There are two varieties of crème de cacao, dark and white, and either can be used in a Brandy Alexander. – it’s personal preference. Dark crème de cacao provides a deeper, richer chocolate flavor and darker color to the cocktail, while white crème de cacao imparts a bit lighter, more delicate chocolate taste.

Brief History of the Brand Alexander Cocktail

The exact origins of the Brandy Alexander are somewhat ambiguous, but most sources point to the early 1900s as its time of creation. While there are various theories surrounding its specific history, it’s widely believed to have become popular in the aftermath of Prohibition, when spirits like brandy became more readily available.

One popular theory attributes the cocktail to New York City bartender Troy Alexander, who was said to have created it at Rector’s restaurant, as a tribute to a successful advertising campaign. The story goes that the drink was named after him, adding “brandy” to the name so it wouldn’t be confused with existing the gin-based cocktail “Alexander.”

Frozen Brandy Alexander Ingredients

For my frozen version of a Brandy Alexander, you’ll need a total of 5 ingredients:

Vanilla ice cream

Brandy

Creme de cacao (white or dark)

Ice chips (optional)

Ground or grated nutmeg, for garnish

Type of Ice Cream to Use

Use the best quality vanilla ice cream you can find -it’s a key ingredient. I like Graeter’s Vanilla Bean (I find it in my Kroger grocery store), Haagen-Dazs and Breyers Natural Vanilla brands. Note that Breyers is a softer ice cream and will result in a smoother drink. For a milkshake texture, use a denser ice cream like Graeter’s or Haagan-Dazs.

Best Brandy to Use

Given the limited number of ingredients in this recipe, I think it’s important to use good quality ingredients. However, don’t go buy a top drawer brandy! I like the flavor of cognac (a type of brandy) in brandy alexanders. Select a nice, mid-priced cognac. A widely available, affordable French brand that works well in this recipe is St Remy. It technically isn’t a cognac because it’s from a different region in France, but it’s made by the same process, so it tastes similar.

How to Make a Brandy Alexander with Ice Cream

The only equipment you need to make these dessert cocktails is a blender, and here’s all you have to do:

Process ingredients.
Place ice cream, brandy and creme de cacao in a blender and process until mixed.
Add ice (if desired).
Add ice (if using) and process until smooth.
Garnish and serve (or freeze).
Sprinkle top with ground nutmeg and serve immediately, or place in an airtight container and freeze (won’t freeze hard due to the alcohol).

“Yum yum! Made a batch last night for my husband’s birthday and they were a huge hit.”
Carol f.

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Frozen Brandy Alexander Variations

Put a personal spin on your Frozen Brandy Alexanders with one of these variations:

Use chocolate or coffee ice cream instead of vanilla.
Add a splash of vodka for a White Russian-inspired twist.
Garnish with cocoa powder instead of (or in addition to) grated nutmeg.

How to Serve this Brandy Alexander Recipe with Ice Cream

I often serve these Frozen Brandy Alexanders as after-dinner drinks, either alongside or following dessert.

To elevate them from boozy milkshakes to sophisticated dessert cocktails, the right presentation is essential. Opting for martini or coupe glasses is a must-have for that timeless, elegant look and feel. The grated nutmeg garnish is another key element, adding a touch of color and texture. It’s a subtle yet impactful addition that elevates the overall presentation and experience.

And, if the texture of your Frozen Brandy Alexanders is more like a boozy milkshake, you may want to serve them with a small spoon or straw.

Storing this Brandy Alexander Recipe

Frozen Brandy Alexanders can be prepared up to 1 month ahead, packed into an airtight container and frozen. The mixture won’t freeze super hard due to the alcohol content. Let soften for a few minutes, then whirl in a blender until it reaches the desired consistency.

Other Cocktail Recipes to Try

Frozen Brandy Alexander Drink

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5 from 9 reviews

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Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1/2 cup good quality vanilla ice cream
1 1/2 ounces brandy
3/4 ounce creme de cacao – white or dark (see Note below)
1/4 cup crushed ice (optional)
Ground nutmeg, for garnish

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Instructions

Place ice cream, brandy and creme de cacao in a blender and process until mixed.
Add ice (if using) and process until smooth.
Pour into an individual martini or coupe glass. Sprinkle top with ground nutmeg and serve immediately.

Notes

Note on Crème de Cacao: white crème de cacao will provide a lighter, more milk chocolate flavor, while regular will provide a richer, dark chocolate flavor.

Make ahead: Brandy Alexanders can be prepared up to 1 month ahead, packed into an airtight container and frozen. The mixture won’t freeze super hard due to the alcohol content. Let soften for a few minutes, then whirl in a blender until it reaches the desired consistency.

Author: Lee Clayton Roper
Category: cocktails, dessert
Method: blender
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cocktail
Calories: 414
Sugar: 22.1 g
Sodium: 68.4 mg
Fat: 17.5 g
Saturated Fat: 11.2 g
Carbohydrates: 24.1 g
Fiber: 0.1 g
Protein: 3.8 g
Cholesterol: 98.4 mg

Brandy Alexander Recipe Ice Cream FAQs

What does a Brandy Alexander taste like?

A good frozen brandy Alexander will taste creamy, with hints of vanilla (from the ice cream), chocolate (from the creme de cacao) and subtle fruity undertones (from the brandy).

Is brandy a liquor or wine?

Brandy is a liquor (or distilled spirit) that can be made from wine or fermented fruit.

How many calories are in a Brandy Alexander?

A traditional Brandy Alexander made with heavy whipping cream has around 270 calories per serving. This frozen version, that calls for ice cream instead of heavy cream, has 414 calories per serving.

What can I substitute for crème de cacao in a Brandy Alexander?

Good substitutes for crème de cacao are a chocolate liqueur, Kahlua or Baileys. They will change the flavor profile of the drink a bit, but it will still be delicious.

What’s the difference between brandy and cognac?

Cognac is a type (or style) of brandy. Any spirit that’s made from distilled fruit is considered a brandy. Cognac is made specifically from white grapes and must be made in the Cognac region of France.

The post Brandy Alexander with Ice Cream appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

Mango Banana Smoothie

Lee Clayton Roper — Sun, 19 Feb 2023 13:05:00 +0000

This Banana Mango Smoothie is the epitome of a summer day in a glass, that you can enjoy all year long. It’s bright and bursting with fresh flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the tropics. The sweetness of the mango and banana perfectly balances the tangy citrus of the orange and lime, while a hint of mint adds a refreshing and cooling effect. Each sip is like a burst of sunshine that will leave you feeling invigorated and ready to take on the day.

Why we love this Banana Mango Smoothie

There are so many reasons why I love this Mango Banana Smoothie recipe, and you will, too:

First and foremost, these smoothies are cool and refreshing. The combination of sweet mango, banana and orange with tangy lime and refreshing mint creates a unique and vibrant flavor that is truly irresistible.
In addition to their great taste, these smoothies are also healthy. They’re loaded with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A and potassium, which can help support your immune system, improve digestion, and give you the energy you need to tackle your day.
Another reason to love these smoothies is how easy they are to make. All you need is a blender and a few ingredients, and you can whip up a batch in just a few minutes. They are a great option for a quick and easy breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Finally, these smoothies are very versatile. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences by adjusting the amount of each ingredient or adding in extra ingredients like peaches, strawberries or even protein powder. This means that you can make these smoothies your own and enjoy them in a variety of different ways.

Quick Tip

Did you know that you can freeze ripe bananas? They immediately turn brown, but that’s not a problem if using them in smoothies, Banana Bread, Banana Raspberry Cake or Banana Yogurt Pancakes!

Banana Mango Smoothie Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this sweet and satisfying smoothie (details including quantities are in the recipe card below):

Mango – can use fresh or frozen
Banana – can use fresh or frozen
Fresh orange juice
Lime juice – I like to use key lime juice
Honey
Fresh mint
Cinnamon
Kosher salt
Ice
Key lime, for garnish – can use regular lime

Mango Banana Smoothie Mix-in Ideas

A few more ingredients you can add to this smoothie include peaches, nectarines, strawberries, pineapple or lemon juice (in place of lime).

How to Pick the Best Mango for a Banana Mango Smoothie

I recommend using Alphonso mangoes if you can find them, or Tommy Atkins. Both varieties are widely available in the U.S., but Alphonsos have a much shorter season, so they’re not always available.

How to make a Mango and Banana Smoothie

Here’s all you have to do to make these flavorful smoothies in around 10 minutes:

Blend all ingredients except ice.
Place mango, banana, orange juice, lime juice, honey, mint, cinnamon and salt in a blender and blend until smooth.
Add ice.
Add ice and blend until smooth.
Taste; adjust seasonings.
Taste and add more lime juice, mint, cinnamon or salt as needed.
Garnish and serve.
Garnish with fresh mint and a slice of lime and serve.

How to make a Banana Mango Smoothie Ahead of Time

To make these smoothies ahead, just follow the recipe, then place in an airtight container and refrigerate. For best flavor and texture, use within 2 days.

Banana Mango Smoothie

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This Banana Mango Smoothie is the epitome of a summer day in a glass – that you can enjoy all year long. It’s bright and bursting with fresh flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the tropics. The sweetness of the mango and banana perfectly balances the tangy citrus of the orange and lime, while a hint of mint adds a refreshing and cooling effect. Each sip is like a burst of sunshine that will leave you feeling invigorated and ready to take on the day.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 large mango, peeled and coarsely chopped (around 1 cup mango cubes) – can also use frozen
1 large ripe banana, peeled and sliced into 2-inch pieces
Juice from 1 large navel orange (1/4 to 1/3 cup)
3 tablespoons key lime juice – see Note
2 tablespoons honey
6 to 8 large fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
Dash cinnamon
Pinch (or 2) of kosher salt
1 to 2 handfuls ice
1 key lime, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Place mango, banana, orange juice, lime juice, honey, mint, cinnamon and salt in a blender and blend until smooth.
Add ice and blend until smooth.
Taste and add more lime juice, mint, cinnamon or salt as needed.
Garnish with fresh mint and a slice of key lime and serve.

Notes

Note on key lime juice: If you can’t find fresh key limes, use bottled key lime juice (I like Nellie and Joe’s brand). You can also substitute juice from regular limes, but you may need more honey.

Make ahead: Smoothies can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate.

Author: Lee Clayton Roper
Category: beverages, breakfast, healthy, gluten free
Method: blender
Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass
Calories: 194
Sugar: 39.8 g
Sodium: 40.5 mg
Fat: 0.6 g
Saturated Fat: 0.2 g
Carbohydrates: 50.5 g
Fiber: 3.4 g
Protein: 1.8 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Mango Banana Smoothie FAQs

Can I use frozen fruit to make a smoothie?

Yes, you can use frozen fruit in this smoothie. It will have a much thicker texture, so I would omit the ice.

What fruit blends well with mango?

Many fruits go well with mango, including banana, strawberry, peach, apricot, and pineapple.

Can I batch make a mango banana smoothie?

Yes, you definitely can make these smoothies in a batch ahead of time. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best flavor and texture, use within 2 days of making.

The post Mango Banana Smoothie appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

Kentucky Derby Mint Julep

Lee Clayton Roper — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 19:41:00 +0000

Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make bourbon cocktail? Well, look no further than our beloved Kentucky Mint Julep recipe. My family’s version of this classic cocktail has the perfect balance of bourbon, sweetness and minty freshness – making it a favorite among both experienced cocktail enthusiasts and those new to the world of mixology. With our tried-and-true recipe, you’ll be able to easily whip up a crowd-pleasing batch of delicious Mint Juleps.

(Photo by Laurie Smith)

This post contains referral links for products I recommend. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission on qualified purchases, at no cost to you.

What is a Mint Julep?

A Mint Julep is a cocktail that traditionally consists of bourbon whiskey, simple syrup (a mixture of sugar and water), fresh mint leaves and ice (often crushed ice), served in a pewter or silver cup. It’s a popular drink in the Southern United States, particularly in Kentucky, and is the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby horse race.

Why You’ll Love This Genuine Mint Julep Kentucky Derby Drink

There are many reasons why you’ll love my family’s Mint Julep Kentucky Derby recipe:

It’s a classic cocktail that’s been enjoyed for years and has become the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, an annual horse race held the first Saturday in May in my mother’s home town of Louisville, Kentucky.
It’s easy to make with just a few ingredients and some basic barware. Whether you’re an experienced cocktail enthusiast or new to mixology, you’ll find our recipe is both approachable and versatile.
What sets our Kentucky Mint Julep recipe apart is that, in addition to mixing crushed fresh mint into the cocktail, we add in more mint flavor by infusing it directly into the simple syrup (sugar and water) – resulting in layers of cool, vibrant minty deliciousness. Our recipe has been carefully crafted to strike just the right balance, with a subtle minty sweetness that matches but doesn’t overpower the bold bourbon flavor.

Mint Julep Ingredients

You only need 4 ingredients to make this classic mint julep:

good quality bourbon,
fresh mint,
granulated sugar, and
water.

Which brand of bourbon you use is personal preference. Woodford Reserve is the official bourbon served at the Kentucky Derby and included in their mint juleps (until 2027), so that’s a good option. On the other hand, my mom preferred Jack Daniels (which actually is technically a bourbon, but markets itself as whiskey).

(Photo by Laurie Smith)

How to Make a Mint Julep

Here’s an overview of how to make this refreshing cocktail (details in recipe card below):

Make a simple syrup.
Bring water to a boil; reduce heat to simmer and stir in sugar. Continue cooking, until until sugar dissolves and water is no longer cloudy (doesn’t take very long).
Add mint; let steep.
Stir in mint, crushing mint leaves with your stirring spoon. Remove from heat, cover, let cool and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (the longer the better) to allow the mint flavor to steep into the syrup.
Assemble cocktails.
Place a few mint leaves in the bottom of each mint julep cup and crush with a muddler (or back of a spoon). Fill each cup with lots of ice (to the top). Add bourbon and mint simple syrup; stir to combine.
Garnish and serve.
Add a fresh mint sprig to each glass and serve.

How to Serve This Kentucky Derby Drink

According to my mom and her brothers, you should always serve a Mint Julep cocktail in a julep cup – a silver or pewter cup that keeps the drink cold. In fact, Mint Julep cups were a popular gift among Southerners for years – my Uncle Dan gave us a monogrammed set as a wedding present (that’s one in these photos).

Mint Julep Drink Storage

To store the minted simple syrup, after 48 hours of steeping in the refrigerator, strain out mint leaves and discard. Place the syrup back in an airtight container and refrigerate; it will last for around 1 month.

(Photo by Laurie Smith)

FAQs for How to Make a Mint Julep

What is the best mint for a mint julep?

I like to use Spearmint in this cocktail – and it’s the standard mint sold in grocery stores. I would avoid using peppermint. According to legendary New Orleans barman Chris McMillian, “the man who would put peppermint into a mint julep would put scorpions into a baby’s bed.”

What bourbon is used in a mint julep?

Which brand of bourbon you use is personal preference. For example, Woodford Reserve is the official bourbon served at the Kentucky Derby and included in their mint juleps (until 2027), so that’s a good option. On the other hand, my mom always used Jack Daniels (which is technically a bourbon, but markets itself as whiskey).

What is the difference between a mojito and mint julep?

While both drinks contain mint and sugar, the rest of the ingredients are different:

– A mint julep calls for bourbon, whereas as mojito is made with rum.
– And, a mint julep is made with simple syrup, while a traditional mojito is made with granulated sugar and club soda.
– A mojito is made with lime juice, and a mint julep has no citrus added.
– A mint julep is garnished with mint, a mojito with a slice of lime.

More Recipes for Race Day

And here are Two Complete Derby Dinner Menus.

Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Recipe

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Print Recipe

Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail? Look no further than our beloved Kentucky Mint Julep recipe. My family’s version of this classic cocktail has the perfect balance of bourbon, sweetness and minty freshness – making it a favorite among both experienced cocktail enthusiasts and those new to the world of mixology. With our tried-and-true recipe, you’ll be able to easily whip up a crowd-pleasing batch of delicious Mint Juleps.

Prep Time: 2 mins
Chilling time:: 120 minutes
Cook Time: 3 mins
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Yield: 12 or more servings

Ingredients

2 cups water
2 cups granulated sugar
1/3 cup + 1/4 cup packed fresh mint leaves, divided use (plus sprigs for garnish)
1 bottle good bourbon (Mom preferred Jack Daniels)
Ice

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Instructions

Make a simple syrup: bring water to a boil; reduce heat to simmer and stir in sugar. Continue cooking, until until sugar dissolves and water is no longer cloudy (doesn’t take very long). Stir in mint, crushing mint leaves with your stirring spoon. Remove from heat, cover, let cool and refrigerate for several hours or overnight (the longer the better) to allow the mint flavor to steep into the syrup.
Place a few mint leaves in the bottom of each mint julep cup, and crush with a muddler (or back of a spoon). Fill each cup with lots of ice (to the top). Add 3 ounces (1/3 cup) of bourbon, 3 to 4 tablespoons of the mint simple syrup (or more to taste).
Add a sprig of fresh mint to each glass and serve.

Notes

Make ahead: Minted simple syrup can be made up to 1 month ahead. To store, after 48 hours of steeping in the refrigerator, strain out the mint leaves and discard. Place syrup back in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for around 1 month.

Author: From “A Well-Seasoned Kitchen®” by Sally Clayton and Lee Clayton Roper
Category: cocktails, make ahead
Cuisine: Southern

The post Kentucky Derby Mint Julep appeared first on A Well Seasoned Kitchen.

My 15 Most Popular Posts of 2022

Lee Clayton Roper — Mon, 02 Jan 2023 22:14:10 +0000

As we begin 2023, I thought I would take a look back at 2022 and see which posts you all liked the most – that received the most traffic during the year (measured by the total number of page views and sessions – or active engagements with the page). There’s quite a variety – from cocktails, appetizers and main dishes, to how-to instructions and entertaining tips. Interestingly, most of the top recipes were my “quick and easy” dishes!

Here they are, in order of popularity:

Leftover Pork Quesadillas

Quesadillas are an excellent way to use up leftovers – like these scrumptious Leftover Pork Quesadillas. Cooked pork is combined with sausage, peppers, onion, seasonings and lots of cheese then stuffed inside flour tortillas and sautéed. Crispy on the outside, full of flavor on the inside. You can use just about any leftovers – pork, steak, chicken, shrimp, even chopped vegetables!

Drinks Archives - A Well Seasoned Kitchen

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