Ready to up your cocktail game year-round? The Ginger Mint Julep is a versatile twist on the classic bourbon drink, blending the warmth of bourbon with the refreshing kick of mint and spicy ginger.
Perfectly balanced and endlessly adaptable, this cocktail shines whether you’re hosting a cozy winter gathering or sipping on the porch during summer. Whatever the season, it’s a drink that’s always in style.
How to Make a Ginger Mint Julep
To create this delicious cocktail, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: chopped ginger, fresh mint leaves, simple syrup (or sugar and water), bourbon, orange bitters, fresh lemon juice, and ginger ale. Begin by muddling the ginger, mint, and simple syrup in a shaker. Then, add the bourbon, bitters, and lemon juice and shake vigorously with ice.
For an even more pronounced flavor, consider using a smoothie blender instead of a shaker. This will chop the ingredients finer and create a more opaque appearance. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice, top with ginger ale, and garnish with a sprig of mint.
Tips for Serving & Enjoying Your Ginger Mint Julep
When serving your Ginger Mint Julep, consider using a metal julep mug or tumbler. This will keep your drink extra cold and add a festive touch to your presentation. Large sprigs of mint make for an attractive and fragrant garnish.
While crushed ice is the traditional choice for a julep, you can opt for larger ice cubes if you prefer a slower dilution of your drink. A sipping straw can also make it easier to navigate the ice and enjoy your cocktail.
Ginger Mint Julep
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups loosely packed fresh spearmint chopped for each serving
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup crushed ice
- 1 ounce bourbon
- 2 tsp lime juice
- 1-1/2 ounces ginger beer
Instructions
Mint Syrup Preparation:
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, and chopped mint.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool completely.
- Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer, discarding the mint leaves.
- Transfer the strained syrup to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
Serving the Ginger Mint Julep:
- Fill a mint julep cup or rocks glass with ice.
- Pour bourbon, lime juice, and 1/4 cup of the chilled mint syrup into the glass.
- Stir the mixture until it becomes cold.
- Top off the drink with ginger beer.
- Serve and enjoy your refreshing Ginger Mint Julep!
Nutrition
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.