How to Easily Make the Perfect Mint Julep

The Kentucky Derby experience isn't complete without a Mint Julep. Chef Mike stopped by to give us quick instructions on making a perfect version of this classic drink.

Chef Mike of Bluestone Bistro in Poughkeepse showed us that putting together a Mint Julep may seem daunting, but it's actually quite easy. The most important thing is to start out with the right ingredients.  You'll need a good Kentucky Bourbon, some fresh mint, crushed ice and simple syrup. You can make your own simple syrup by boiling equal parts of water and sugar and then placing it in the refrigerator to cool.

After you gather your ingredients, just follow these seven easy steps:

• Take four or five mint leaves and place them in the bottom of a nice glass.
• Cover the mint leaves with a generous amount of simple syrup to taste, depending on how sweet you want your drink.
• Crush the mint leaves with a muddler, releasing the mint flavors into the syrup.
• Add crushed ice halfway up the glass followed by 2 ounces of bourbon.
• Stir the mixture to get the bourbon nice and cold while chilling the glass.
• Fill the rest of the glass to the top with more crushed ice.
• Garnish with a sprig of mint, crush it in your hands to release the aromas and add a small straw for mixing.

The result should be a smooth, sweet-tasting drink with just the right amount of mint aroma, due to the fresh garnish on top. Hey, if I can make one, so can you.

Here's Chef Mike giving us a crash course in Julep making:

Chef Mike is the owner of Simply Gourmet Catering and Bluestone Bistro, located on IBM Road, off of Route 9 in Poughkeepsie.