pineapple mint julep
Derby horns intensify.
Yesterday was Cinco de Mayo, and we ate tacos and downed sangria, then finished the night with cookie bars. And today? We’re mowing down the remainder of those tasty bars while raising some Pineapple Mint Juleps to the biggest celebration you’ll ever see for a 1 minute event.
The hullaballoo around the Derby is fascinating to me. Though nowadays the extravagance is largely for the hell of it and not necessarily to boast about your finances, it’s still quite the bonanza. I read that around 120,000 mint juleps are purchased during Derby weekend. Fucking wild. Then there’s the betting parties, the viewing parties, those insanely decorative and quite obtrusive hats.
I can appreciate anything with a festive flare, though. Even I kinda get into it despite my general neutrality about the race. I do wish I had a big floofy hat. But because I don’t, I guess we’ll settle with cocktails.
My May Wellness prompt yesterday was to “enjoy an evening cocktail,” befitting because Fridays around here usually involve me developing a new sippy sip for ya’ll to try. A Pineapple Mint Julep is a light and easy twist on the classic: fresh pineapple puree mingles with mint, simple syrup, and your favorite bourbon. Takes no time at all and is a perfect chill-around drink no matter what you’re getting into this weekend. It was nice to kick back after a rather hectic day.
Breezy Bourbon
Not much of a process with this cocktail; it’s quit straightforward.
If you don’t have some on hand, simmer a quick simple syrup. I make a larger batch to have on hand for future cocktails, since stored in the fridge simple syrup will last a week or two.
Next, puree a little pineapple. I find that pureeing creates a smoother flavor (and no chunks in your drink), and here again you can blend extra if you plan more than one drink.
Now you’re ready to assemble your drink! Muddle some fresh mint and simply syrup, then stir in the pineapple and bourbon. Spoon in lots of ice and top with mint leaves. Done and done!
Sometimes I like to add a bit of sparkling water to the top if I feel like filling the drink out, but this isn’t necessary. I usually drink mine as is and am happy enough. Sometimes you just don’t mess with a good thing, y’know?
Enjoy responsibly, don’t drive, and have fun at your Derby soirees!
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!
Spiny fren strikes again!
pineapple mint julep
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 4-6 mint leaves
- 2 oz bourbon
- mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- In a food processor or blender, whip the pineapple chunks until smooth.
- In the bottom of a cocktail glass, muddle the mint leaves and maple syrup. Add the pineapple puree and the bourbon. Stir until well combined. Fill the glass with ice and top off with fresh mint leaves.
