Mint Julep Recipe

One really should enjoy the Kentucky Derby presented by Yum! Brands with a Mint Julep. And just because you won't be singing "My Old Kentucky Home" beneath the twin spires of Churchill Downs, doesn't mean you can't sip on the official drink of the Run for the Roses or serve them to your Derby party guests with mini hot brown appetizers.

Just in time to make this week's shopping list, a recipe for Mint Juleps.

First, actual Kentucky Derby glasses are a big plus. Pre-chilled. Second, don't skimp on the bourbon. Woodford Reserve is used at Churchill Downs but Van Winkle Family Reserve, Maker's Mark, Old Weller Antique and Jim Beam or all good.

1. Crushed Ice (Sonic Ice by the bag is great.)
2. Sprigs of mint
3. 1-1/2 tsp. Simple Syrup (Recipe Below)
4. Bourbon to at least 3/4 full. (To top is traditional but those are really strong.)

To begin, take a sprig of mint and rub the interior walls of Glass . Be careful not to mince or crush leaves. Its the fragrant taste we are seeking. Pack glasses or tumblers with crushed ice & put in about 1 1/2 teaspoon of simple syrup. Fill glass with Bourbon. Stir until a frost appears and add topleaf sprigs of mint about 3 inches long. Enjoy!

SIMPLE SYRUP
Brew equal parts of sugar and water to the consistency of honey.

Mint Julep Fun Facts:
More than 120,000 Mint Juleps will be served at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Derby Day. Considering that the expected crowd is 150,000 or so, nearly everyone in attendance enjoys one. In making the delectable drink, Churchill Downs will use 7,800 liters of bourbon. Considering that there are 22-1/2 shots in a liter, 175,500 shots will be distributed to those 150,000 fans.

More than 475,000 pounds of shaved ice will be used to make the Mint Juleps and the Kentucky Oaks official drink, the Oaks Lilies. Churchill Downs will also use 2,250 pounds of fresh mint, all locally grown.