Break out the bourbon and grab the most lavish hat you own.
The Kentucky Derby, known as the two most exciting minutes in sports, is happening Saturday, and the best way to enjoy the race is with a cocktail in hand.
But when the starting gate opens, you can’t drink just any cocktail. If you’re following tradition, it must be a mint julep.
The simple cocktail, made with bourbon, simple syrup and mint over crushed ice, has been the signature drink at the famous horse race for years.
Here’s a classic recipe for the mint julep from the Los Angeles Times Test Kitchen:
Classic mint julep
Total time: 5 minutes, plus more for simple syrup preparation
2 tablespoons Simple Syrup
4 fresh mint sprigs
Shaved ice
2/3 cup bourbon
Powdered sugar
Mint leaves
Pour 1 tablespoon Simple Syrup into tall glass. Add 2 sprigs mint, crushed slightly. Add ice. Stir in 1/3 cup bourbon. Add more ice to fill glass. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and garnish with mint.
Repeat with remaining ingredients. Makes 2 servings.
1 cup boiling water
1 cup sugar
Stir boiling water into sugar until sugar dissolves. Simple syrup will keep almost indefinitely refrigerated in covered container.
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