guava mint julep
Gearing up for the most exciting 30 seconds on television next weekend: The Kentucky Derby.
I truly have 0 interest in horse racing, or horses, or racing, or Kentucky. For whatever reason, however, I quite enjoy all the frilly coverage of the Kentucky Derby. Most likely, I fall for the pageantry behind it (as I’d imagine is the same for most people who don’t hedge bets or have a passion for equestrian stuff), the ridiculous and utterly stunning hats, and, of course, the whiskey.
Pretty much the only reason I’m here today is for the whiskey. Actually, that sounds bad. I mean in this particular blog post.
Though, I will admit, the collective breath-holding when the horses begin their dash is quite mesmerizing. I get quite caught up in that caliber of pack mentality. For some people, it is a highly crucial, high emotional event. I respect tat, even if I don’t quite understand it.
Here, though, I’ll only share with no uncertainty my understanding of this beautiful Guava Mint Julep. A fun little tropical twist on a very simple cocktail. Four ingredients for a pretty glass and perfect to whip up for your fancy high-hat parties. Or, just yourself, for the Derby or for no other reason than it sounds refreshing on a sunny afternoon.
Joo-Lep
Like joo-lah for July, if you’re a boomer.
Apparently the mint julep was initially a cure for various ailments, way back when strong liquors were the basis of medical advice. I suppose it still could be considered such, for those stuck at the Derby for hours before the event occurs and nowhere to go but the bar.
All you need is four components and five minutes: mint leaves, honey (simple syrup is traditional, but I do like me some honey as the sweetener), whiskey, and guava nectar.
For the guava nectar, try to buy the pure juice and not the “juice cocktail.” I have found that guava is usually mixed with something else anyway, even when marketed as the nectar (guava must really taste like ass by itself), but the “cocktail” contains far more shit and far less guava than is preferred here.
Grab your favorite cocktail glass (if you have a silver julep mug, have at it). Muddle mint with honey or simple syrup, if you prefer the latter. Stir in the whiskey and guava nectar with a little ice. Fill the rest of the glass with ice and garnish with a nice big mint sprig.
Easy as that. Super drinkable, yet hearty thanks to the whiskey. My kinda drink.
Tried this recipe out? Leave a rating and comment below with your thoughts, and don’t forget to come say hi on Instagram and show me what you made!
More whiskey, please:
guava mint julep
Ingredients
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
- 2-3 tsp honey (use to taste)
- 2 oz whiskey
- 2 oz guava nectar
Instructions
- In a glass, muddle the mint leaves and honey until nice and squished. Measure in the whiskey and guava nectar. Add a little bit of ice and stir, then fill the rest of the glass with ice. I prefer crushed ice. Garnish with a mint sprig.
