The Derby means a Social Affair

There is something to be said for an event where everyone dresses up in their finest frocks and sports a lovely and stylish hat.  I am not talking about the Royal Wedding, but rather the Kentucky Derby. The one horse race that I try and watch every year.  We have made it a tradition to have everyone over to watch the fastest moment in sports.  It is great fun to try and pick a horse, and then cheer them on to the finish!

I think this year, we will have some sort of a get together.  Typically we have a light snack, and definitely a mint julep.  I don't have all the silver julep cups, but no one seems to mind.  I do have one, so I make sure that one is used as well.  If it is just family, the affair is much more low key than if guests are invited.  I know of people who have all day parties that linger into the night.

Traditionally a Derby party is not complete without Kentucky ham and a julep, but this is an opportunity to share with those you love and make your own style.  The biggest thing is to wear a hat and enjoy a moment where everyone won't think you are crazy!  I am not sure what hat I will pick out, but I will definitely share a picture with you after the event.

Here is a recipe for a Mint Julep that will make you feel like you too are at the Derby.  This is courtesy of Food Network, and you might find one you like better.

Mint Julep

4 cups bourbon

2 bunches fresh spearmint

1 cup distilled water

1 cup granulated sugar

Powdered sugar

Directions:

To prepare mint extract, remove about 40 small mint leaves. Wash and place in a small bowl. Cover with 3 ounces Bourbon. Allow the leaves to soak for 15 minutes. Then gather the leaves in paper toweling. Thoroughly wring the mint over the bowl of whisky. Dip the bundle again and repeat the process several times.

To prepare simple syrup, mix 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of distilled water in a small saucepan. Heat to dissolve sugar. Stir constantly so the sugar does not burn. Set aside to cool.

To prepare mint julep mixture, pour 3 1/2 cups of bourbon into a large glass bowl or glass pitcher. Add 1 cup of the simple syrup to the bourbon.

Now begin adding the mint extract 1 tablespoon at a time to the julep mixture. Each batch of mint extract is different, so you must taste and smell after each tablespoon is added. You are looking for a soft mint aroma and taste-generally about 3 tablespoons. When you think it's right, pour the whole mixture back into the empty liter bottle and refrigerate it for at least 24 hours to "marry" the flavors.

To serve the julep, fill each glass (preferably a silver mint julep cup) 1/2 full with shaved ice. Insert a spring of mint and then pack in more ice to about 1-inch over the top of the cup. Then, insert a straw that has been cut to 1-inch above the top of the cup so the nose is forced close to the mint when sipping the julep.

When frost forms on the cup, pour the refrigerated julep mixture over the ice and add a sprinkle of powdered sugar to the top of the ice. Serve immediately.