For some, it’s all about the horses, and yes, while the hat watching is enthralling, for us, it’s this official Kentucky Derby sip that does it. Jim Solomon, chef and owner of The Fireplace in Brookline, MA (and husband of Rue’s own Associate Creative Director), shares with us his recipe for The Perfect Mint Julep, refreshingly sweet and easily re-created at home:

Ingredients:
• 8 to 10 mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• Crushed ice
• 2-1/2 ounces bourbon
• Splash of simple syrup (see below)
• Sprig of mint, for garnish

Steps:
1. Drop the mint leaves and sugar in the bottom of a tall glass.
2. With the handle of a wooden spoon, crush and muddle the leaves to extract the flavor.
3. Fill the glass with crushed (not cubed) ice.
4. Pour in the bourbon.
5. Top with a splash of simple syrup.
6. With a long-handled spoon, jiggle lightly (rather than stir) to chill and mix.
7. Garnish with a sprig of mint.
8. Sip.

For the simple syrup:
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup water

1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook until sugar is dissolved, about 2 minutes.
3. Remove from the heat and cool completely.

Yield: About 1 1/2 cups

- By Sam Dulac, Senior Staff Writer

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