This strawberry-infused cocktail is a fun spin on a classic mint julep. Sometimes I find an ingredient so delicious or a concept so exciting that I feel like I’m holding onto a big secret. When I finally get the chance to share these big discoveries with you all, I feel like a giddy little kid on the inside (hands clapping, jumping up and down, rah rah rah!). Today is one of those days. I’ve discovered the delights of infused liquors. They’re so good, you guys! And so easy! I was always put off by the waiting time for infusions, but after one sip of my first infused liquor, I realized that infusions are absolutely worth the wait. Infusions allow you to capture the essence of ripe fruit in its prime. Once you’ve made the infusion, you can enjoy it simply, over ice or mixed with club soda and a splash of citrus, or go a step further and make a traditional drink taste magical.
If you, too, have felt intimidated at the prospect of making your own infusions, hear me out: all I’m asking you to do is slice some strawberries, pour some liquor over them and screw on a lid. You can do this!
Last summer’s cocktail series was all about muddled fruits, and I think I muddled all the fruit I could muddle, so this summer will the be the summer of infusions. I hope you all are as excited as I am. Since strawberries are starting to hit the markets (and my love for bourbon is no secret), I decided that my first infusion recipe would be a strawberry-infused mint julep. Southern traditionalists make their mint juleps with mint, sugar, bourbon and ice (only!) and serve them in silver julep cups. I am no traditionalist, however! I took liberties with my recipe, tempering the strong bourbon flavor with the taste of fresh strawberries and a light drizzle of honey instead of sugar. I served the resulting cocktails in little glasses from the thrift store to show off their shockingly pink hue. Despite its girly color, I assure you that this twist still packs a punch and will appeal to both genders. Strawberry-Infused Mint Julep Recipe Ingredients:
7 fresh mint leaves 1/2 teaspoon honey (to taste) 2 1/2 ounces strawberry-infused bourbon (see recipe above) 1 strawberry, for garnish (optional)
Instructions: Notes: Adapted from The Seasonal Cocktail Companion by Maggie Savarino. P.s. I set up a facebook album with links to my recipes for Cinco de Mayo! Check it out!
