Basil Julep
The Basil Julep puts a summery twist on this classic Kentucky Derby cocktail. Fresh garden basil is a bright, clean addition to the sweet combo of bourbon and sugar, and mounds of crushed ice keep it cold for hot summer days.
Servings 1 cocktail
Calories 235kcal
Ingredients
- 4-5 leaves fresh basil
- 1-2 cups ice crushed
- ½ ounce basil syrup or 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 ounces bourbon whiskey
Instructions
- Place 4 or 5 fresh basil leaves and simple syrup in a julep cup or collins glass.
- Muddle together to dissolve the sugar and release the oils and aromas of the basil. Gently press the basil leaves up around the edge of the cup to help release more flavor when the alcohol is added.
- Pack the glass tightly with crushed ice.
- Pour bourbon over top. Stir well, until glass becomes frosty. Garnish with basil leaves and a straw (optional). Serve, holding the glass near the rim to preserve the frosty exterior.
Notes
If you prefer a stronger basil flavor, you can make a basil simple syrup:
- Warm 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and add about 10-12 fresh basil leaves. Let cool completely, then remove the basil. Once cooled, you can use in your cocktail. To store, pour into a glass jar, cover and refrigerate for up to one week.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cocktail | Calories: 235kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 21mg | Potassium: 17mg | Fiber: 0.03g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 106IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg
