Did you happen to catch the Kentucky Derby last weekend? Yeah, me either.
One of the best parts of the race (besides the hats and the horses, of course) would have to be the signature cocktail in those classic silver cups.
The mint julep is as iconic to the famous race as the fashion is, I’d say. And for good reason!
Crushed ice, Kentucky bourbon, and fresh mint. Yum.
But, if you happened to miss the chance to sip on one of these babies during the race, have no fear (because you can’t just drink one any other day of the year or anything)…national mint julep day is coming up at the end of the month and I’m going to help you celebrate with this recipe for a twist on the classic…mango mint juleps!
This classic cocktail is a cinch to make and the mango gives it just a touch of the tropics! I can’t ever say no to mango. It’s a problem.
You don’t need to have traditional silver julep cups to mix these in, but it definitely doesn’t hurt (and they are pretty fun to sip out of). I found mine at Home Goods, but if you don’t want to search for them, you can also order your own here.
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own:
- 3 oz. Kentucky Bourbon
- 3 oz. Mango Nectar
- 2 Sugar Cubes
- 2 Teaspoons Water
- 3-4 Leaves of Fresh Mint
- Crushed Ice
- Spring of Mint to Garnish (can add sliced mango too!)
First, add two sugar cubes and 2 teaspoons of water to your julep cups.
Add your fresh mint leaves and muddle the sugar cubes and mint into the water. This will help to release the mint flavor and oils into the cocktail!
Add your bourbon and mango nectar.
Stir well and top with crushed ice.
Add your mint sprig for garnish.
Sip straight from your cup or add a straw.
And remember, you don’t need to wait until the Kentucky Derby next year to drink one of them…mix up your own mango mint julep’s this weekend!
