It's Friday Cocktail TIme

In keeping with our fave Friday feature- "It's Cocktail Time!"

As the heat rises what better place to turn than to the deep South, and what better drink to serve on a positively sweltering summer eve? Juleps, of course. And what better source to turn to than the grand master of the south... this round is borrowed from Southern Living- cheers!

Ingredients:

3 fresh mint leaves

1 tablespoon Mint Simple Syrup* (make one day prior- see below)

Crushed ice

1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons (1 ounce) bourbon

1 (4-inch) cocktail straw or coffee stirrer

1 fresh mint sprig

Powdered sugar (optional)

Recipe:

Place mint leaves and Mint Simple Syrup in a chilled julep cup. 

Gently press leaves against cup with back of spoon to release flavors. 

Pack cup tightly with crushed ice; pour bourbon over ice. 

Insert straw, place mint sprig directly next to straw, and serve immediately. 

Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired. 

Yield: Makes 1 (8-ounce) julep

*Mint Simple Syrup:

1  cup  sugar
1  cup  water
10  to 12 fresh mint sprigs

Bring sugar and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir often, 5 minutes or until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat; add mint, and let cool completely. 

Pour into a glass jar; cover and chill 24 hours. Remove and discard mint.

Yields 2 cups. Leftover Simple Syrup keeps refrigerated for about one week
 and perfectly sweetens iced tea.

Photos and recipes via Southern Living