Jalapeno Mint Julep- this spicy twist on the iconic southern cocktail is great for celebrating Derby Day or for when you need a refreshing cocktail on a hot summer day.
Jalapeno-Flavored Simple Syrup
The simple syrup for these Mint Juleps is infused with the flavor of jalapeno peppers. It is simple to make and will keep in the refrigerator for several weeks. To make it add 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 sliced jalapeno to a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer and then remove it from the heat and let it steep for 30 minutes. You can easily double the amounts to make a larger batch.
How To Make Jalapeno Mint Julep
- Place 3 to 4 mint leaves in a julep glass and add 1 ounce of simple syrup. Use a spoon or a wooden muddler to gently bruise the mint leaves.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice. Then add 2 1/2 ounces of bourbon. Top the glass off with club soda.
- Garnish with a jalapeno slice and fresh mint leaves.
Use Crushed Ice
Mint Juleps are served with crushed ice. Many will say the crushed ice is the most important part of a mint julep. The crushed ice melts readily and helps dilute the drink and get it really cold.
To make crushed ice, fill the bottom of a cocktail shaker halfway with ice and use a strong wooden spoon to crush it.
Type Of Bourbon To Use
There are so many great bourbons available. Maker’s Mark has always been my go to but I also love Four Roses, Buffalo Trace and Woodford Reserve.
Mint Julep Cups
You can serve these drinks in a traditional silver julep cup or a glass julep cup.
Control The Heat
If you want your simple syrup to have a little less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeno slices before adding them to the saucepan.
More Mint Julep Recipes
Jalapeno Mint Julep
Equipment
Ingredients
Jalapeno Simple Syrup
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 jalapeno, sliced
Mint Julep
- Fresh Mint Leaves
- 1 ounce jalapeno simple syrup
- Crushed Ice
- 2½ ounces bourbon
- Club Soda, optional
Instructions
- Add water, sugar and sliced jalapeno to a small saucepan.Heat over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and stir to make sure the sugar has dissolved. Let sit 30 minutes.Strain out the jalapenos and refrigerate until chilled.
- Place 3 to 4 mint leave in a julep glass and add 1 ounce of simple syrup.Use a spoon or a wooden muddler to gently bruise the leave.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice and add the bourbon.Add club soda to fill the glass.
- Garnish with fresh mint and a jalapeno slice and serve.
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
