Mint Julep

Happy Derby Day!

In honor of Kentucky Derby tradition, I whipped up a batch of mint juleps this afternoon. For a twist on the classic cocktail, ginger was added to the simple syrup.

Ginger Mint Julep
adapted from Better Homes and Gardens

Ingredients
3/4 cup water
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 2-inch piece ginger, thinly sliced
1/2 cup bourbon
1-1/2 cup mint sprigs, loosely packed
Crushed Ice
Long strips of lemon peel

Directions
1. For syrup, in small saucepan combine water, sugar and sliced ginger; bring to boiling; stir to dissolve sugar. Cover and simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat; cool. Strain; discard ginger.

2. Divide mint among 6 small glasses or silver mint julep cups. Add 2 tablespoons ginger syrup to each glass. With a spoon, stir to bruise mint. Divide bourbon evenly among glasses; fill with ice.