Emeril's Mint Julep

A Southern tradition! Emeril's version takes some time so start it a few weeks ahead of time. Cook time is the setting time.

• Ready In: 480 hrs 30 mins
• Yields: 1 quart

Ingredients

• 2  cups bottled water
• 3⁄4 cup sugar
• 3  cups  loosely packed fresh mint leaves
• 2  cups Bourbon
•  fresh mint sprig (to garnish)

Directions

1. Combine the water and sugar in a large non-reactive saucepan over medium heat and stir to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add the mint and bring to a boil.
3. Remove from the heat, cover and steep for 30 minutes.
4. Strain the mint syrup through a strainer lined with several thicknesses of cheesecloth then cool.
5. Combine the cooled mint syrup with the bourbon and pour into a sterilized bottle.
6. Wait at least one month before drinking.
7. To serve, fill a julep cup or Collins glass with clear, crushed ice and fill with the mint julep mixture. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.