Blissful Mint Julep

Mint is flourishing in Michigan after the rainy spring we had, coupled with the mild summer now.  And what better time to think of ways to use it?  Since mint is often associated with desserts and beverages, I will present a few recipes in those categories, and then we'll dig into entrees that use mint.  Yum! 

Here is a recipe for an alcoholic beverage that uses fresh mint, garnished with mint sprigs.  It is one of the best Mint Julep recipes around.  If you've never had a Julep, be prepared to be surprised.  Enjoy!

Blissful Mint Julep

Lightly muddle 10 mint leaves and 1 tbsp. Simple Syrup (equal parts sugar and water, cooked in a saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves, then cooled - extra can be stored in the refrigerator) in a mixing glass/  Stir in 3 tbsp. VSOP brandy or your favorite brand of Cognac and  2 tbsp. rye whiskey.  Fill a Julep cup or glass with crushed ice.  Pour mixture over.  Stir until frost forms on outside of cup.  Add more crushed ice to make a mound.  Garnish with 4 mint sprigs and serve with a straw.  Makes 1.