Mint juleps are a refreshing summer drink that are traditionally made with bourbon. However, for those who prefer to abstain from alcohol, non alcoholic versions are also available. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to create a delicious and authentic non alcoholic mint julep that can be enjoyed by everyone.
The Origin of Mint Juleps
Mint juleps are often associated with the Kentucky Derby, but their history goes back to the 18th century in the southern United States. The drink was originally made with bourbon, sugar, water, and mint leaves, and it was served in a silver or pewter cup filled with crushed ice. The mint julep has since evolved to include different variations, including non-alcoholic versions.
The Ingredients for Non-Alcoholic Mint Juleps
To make a non-alcoholic mint julep, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice
- Club soda
- Lime juice
One key takeaway is that a non-alcoholic mint julep can be made by substituting bourbon with simple syrup, muddled mint leaves, club soda, crushed ice, and lime juice. This drink can be customized with different fruit juices like watermelon, pineapple, peach, or strawberry and even with matcha powder for added flavor and energy. Using fresh mint leaves, crushed ice, and adjusting the sweetness of the drink with simple syrup are some tips for making the perfect non-alcoholic mint julep.
The Process
A key takeaway from this text on how to make non-alcoholic mint juleps is that the drink’s history goes back to the 18th century in the southern United States, with its original recipe consisting of bourbon, sugar, water, and mint leaves served in a silver or pewter cup filled with crushed ice. The text provides a step-by-step guide on how to make a non-alcoholic mint julep using simple syrup, fresh mint leaves, crushed ice, club soda, and lime juice, along with tips for making the perfect drink and variations such as watermelon, pineapple, peach, strawberry, and matcha mint juleps.
Step 1: Make Simple Syrup
The first step in making a non-alcoholic mint julep is to make simple syrup. To make simple syrup, combine equal parts of water and sugar in a pot and heat until the sugar dissolves. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool.
Step 2: Muddle the Mint
Next, muddle the mint leaves in a glass with a muddler or the back of a spoon. This will release the oils and flavor from the mint leaves.
Step 3: Add the Simple Syrup and Lime Juice
Add a tablespoon of the simple syrup and a splash of lime juice to the glass with the muddled mint leaves.
Step 4: Fill the Glass with Crushed Ice
Fill the glass with crushed ice, leaving room at the top for the club soda.
Step 5: Add Club Soda
Top off the glass with club soda and stir.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the drink with a sprig of fresh mint and serve.
Tips for Making Non-Alcoholic Mint Juleps
- Use fresh mint leaves for the best flavor.
- If you don’t have a muddler, you can use the back of a spoon to muddle the mint leaves.
- Crushed ice works best for this drink, as it helps to release the flavors from the mint leaves.
- Use club soda instead of water to give the drink a bubbly texture.
- You can adjust the sweetness of the drink by adding more or less simple syrup.
- For an extra kick of flavor, add a splash of lime juice.
A key takeaway from this text is that non-alcoholic mint juleps can be a refreshing and easy-to-make summer drink, with variations including watermelon, pineapple, peach, strawberry, and even matcha flavors. Simple syrup, fresh mint leaves, crushed ice, club soda, and lime juice are the core ingredients, with each resulting in a bubbly and fruity twist to the classic mint julep recipe.
Variations of Non-Alcoholic Mint Juleps
Watermelon Mint Julep
To make a watermelon mint julep, substitute watermelon juice for the club soda. Blend fresh watermelon in a blender and strain the juice. Add the watermelon juice to the glass with the muddled mint leaves, simple syrup, and lime juice. Top off the glass with crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Pineapple Mint Julep
To make a pineapple mint julep, substitute pineapple juice for the club soda. Add the pineapple juice to the glass with the muddled mint leaves, simple syrup, and lime juice. Top off the glass with crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Peach Mint Julep
To make a peach mint julep, substitute peach juice for the club soda. Add the peach juice to the glass with the muddled mint leaves, simple syrup, and lime juice. Top off the glass with crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Strawberry Mint Julep
For a fruity twist on the classic mint julep, try making a strawberry mint julep. Blend fresh strawberries in a blender and strain the juice. Add the strawberry juice to the glass with the muddled mint leaves, simple syrup, and lime juice. Top off the glass with crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Matcha Mint Julep
Matcha powder adds a unique flavor and a boost of energy to a mint julep. Mix 1 teaspoon of matcha powder with the simple syrup until the matcha dissolves. Add the matcha simple syrup to the glass with the muddled mint leaves, lime juice, and crushed ice. Top off the glass with club soda and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
FAQs for How to Make Non Alcoholic Mint Juleps:
What ingredients are needed to make non alcoholic mint juleps?
To make a non alcoholic mint julep, you will need fresh mint leaves, sugar, water, and crushed ice. Additionally, you will need lemon juice and either club soda or ginger ale. It is important to use fresh ingredients in order to achieve the best taste possible.
Can I substitute the sugar for a healthier alternative?
Yes, you can substitute sugar for honey or other natural sweeteners. However, keep in mind that a change in sweetener can affect the flavor of the mint julep. You may have to adjust the amount of sweetener you use in order to attain the ideal balance of flavors.
How do I ensure that the mint flavor is prominent in the julep?
To ensure that the mint flavor is prominent in your non-alcoholic mint julep, muddle the mint leaves with the sugar and a small amount of water to release the oils from the leaves. Alternatively, you can steep the mint leaves in hot water for a few minutes before using them.
Can I make non alcoholic mint juleps in large quantities for a party?
Absolutely! You can mix the sugar, water, and mint ahead of time and let the mixture sit in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. When it’s time to serve, add the lemon juice and either club soda or ginger ale along with the crushed ice. This will allow you to make multiple servings without having to start from scratch each time.
Can I garnish the non alcoholic mint juleps with anything?
Yes, you can garnish the mint juleps with a sprig of fresh mint or a lemon wedge. Additionally, you can add a skewer of fresh fruit for an extra pop of color and flavor. Be creative and make them as fancy or as simple as you’d like!