Mint julep is a refreshing and classic cocktail that’s perfect for the summer season. However, not everyone prefers to drink alcoholic beverages. If you’re looking for an alternative, non-alcoholic mint julep is a great option. In this article, we’ll show you how to make a delicious and refreshing non-alcoholic mint julep.
everyone! In this guide, we’ll explore how to make a delicious non-alcoholic version of the classic mint julep cocktail. This refreshingly minty drink is a beloved favorite during the summer months, and with our easy recipe, you can enjoy it any time of year without any alcohol. So, whether you’re looking for a refreshing mocktail to serve at your next gathering or just want to try something new, let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make a non-alcoholic mint julep, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of fresh mint leaves
- 2 cups of ginger ale
- Crushed ice
Water
Water is a crucial ingredient in any cocktail. It helps to dilute the other ingredients and balance the flavors.
Granulated sugar
Granulated sugar is another essential ingredient in this recipe. It adds sweetness to the drink and helps to balance the flavors.
Fresh mint leaves
Fresh mint leaves are the star of the show in this recipe. They add a refreshing and cooling flavor to the drink.
Ginger ale
Ginger ale is a great alternative to bourbon in a mint julep. It adds a sweet and spicy flavor to the drink.
Crushed ice
Crushed ice is necessary for a mint julep. It helps to keep the drink cold and adds a nice texture to the drink.
Instructions
Now that you have all of your ingredients, it’s time to make your non-alcoholic mint julep. Follow these instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, and fresh mint leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes until the flavors have melded together.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the mint leaves.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Fill a glass with crushed ice.
- Pour the ginger ale over the ice.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of the mint syrup to the glass.
- Stir the mixture until well combined.
- Garnish the drink with a sprig of fresh mint.
Key takeaway: Non-alcoholic mint julep is a great alternative to the classic cocktail and can be made with fresh mint leaves, water, ginger ale, and crushed ice. You can also experiment with different variations such as peach, lemon, or blackberry mint julep.
Tips
- If you want to make this recipe in advance, you can store the mint syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For a stronger mint flavor, let the mint leaves steep in the syrup for a longer period.
- You can also add a splash of lime juice to the drink to give it a tangy flavor.
Storing Mint
Mint is a delicate herb that can wilt quickly. To keep your mint fresh, store it in a cup of water in the refrigerator. Change the water every few days to keep the mint fresh.
Alternative Sweeteners
If you want to make this recipe with an alternative sweetener, you can substitute the granulated sugar with honey or agave nectar. Keep in mind that the flavor of the drink will be slightly different with these sweeteners.
Variations
There are many different variations of the non-alcoholic mint julep that you can try. Here are a few ideas:
- Peach Mint Julep: Add fresh peach slices to the drink for a sweet and fruity flavor.
- Lemon Mint Julep: Add a splash of lemon juice to the drink for a tangy flavor.
- Blackberry Mint Julep: Add fresh blackberries to the drink for a sweet and tart flavor.
FAQs for How to Make Non Alcoholic Mint Julep
What ingredients do I need to make a non alcoholic mint julep?
To make a non alcoholic mint julep, you will need a few simple ingredients. You will need fresh mint leaves, sugar, water, crushed ice, and a non alcoholic bourbon substitute. You can use different types of non alcoholic bourbons such as Seedlip Spice 94, Ritual Whiskey Alternative or Lyre’s American Malt.
How do I prepare the mint leaves for the non alcoholic mint julep?
The first step to preparing the mint leaves for the non alcoholic mint julep is to rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. After drying the leaves, place them in a sturdy glass or a silver julep cup. Add sugar and water and muddle the mixture together, being careful not to crush the leaves too much.
Can I make a large batch of non alcoholic mint julep at once?
Yes, you can certainly make a large batch of non alcoholic mint julep at once. Simply multiply the ingredients according to the number of drinks you want to make. If you’re making a batch, it’s best to mix the mint leaves, sugar, and water together in a larger container before transferring the mixture to individual glasses or julep cups.
What is the best way to serve a non alcoholic mint julep?
A non alcoholic mint julep is best served over crushed ice in a silver julep cup. First, fill the cup with crushed ice and then pour the mint mixture into the cup. Garnish the drink with a sprig of fresh mint and serve immediately.
Can I make the non alcoholic mint julep ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the non alcoholic mint julep right before serving, as the mint leaves will begin to wilt and lose their freshness if left sitting for too long. However, you can mix the mint syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve the drinks. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the syrup over ice in a julep cup and add your non alcoholic bourbon substitute.