Mexican Julep Cocktail Recipe
Mexican Julep Nutrition Facts
Calories:~250kcal
Total fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:~17g
Alcohol by volume:~20%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Mexican Julep is a delightful twist on the classic Mint Julep, which has its roots in the Southern United States. Traditionally made with bourbon, the Mexican Julep swaps in tequila, giving it a vibrant and contemporary edge that's perfect for tequila aficionados or anyone looking to enjoy a refreshing herbal cocktail with a kick.
- Origins: The Mint Julep has been a staple in the South, particularly associated with the Kentucky Derby.
- Evolution: Over time, bartenders have experimented with different spirits, leading to variations like the Mexican Julep.
- Popularity: This drink is a hit among those who appreciate a minty freshness paired with the complex flavors of agave.
How Mexican Julep Tastes?
The Mexican Julep offers a refreshing minty taste that's perfectly balanced with the sweet, earthy notes of agave from the tequila. It's a harmonious blend of sweet and herbal flavors with a smooth, velvety texture and a spirited kick that lingers on the palate.
Interesting facts about Mexican Julep
- The Mexican Julep is a testament to the versatility of tequila, showcasing how it can be elegantly incorporated into classic cocktails.
- Mint is not only a garnish but an essential ingredient that infuses the drink with its signature freshness.
- The use of a pewter mug, as with the traditional Mint Julep, helps keep the drink extra cold.
Ingredients
- Sauza® 901® tequila: 3 oz(90ml)
- Agave syrup: 1 oz(30ml)
- Water: 1 barspoon
- Mint sprigs: 4 for muddling + 1 for garnish
- Crushed ice: As needed
Sauza® 901® Tequila
3oz of this premium tequila isn't just to give you a buzz—it's the soul of the cocktail, balancing the mint and sweet notes. Too little, and your drink lacks character; too much, and you might start seeing double. Alternatives: An aged tequila could add depth, but stick with a high-quality blanco for that crisp, clean flavor that wows.
Emma Rose
Agave Syrup
Sweeter than your grandma's compliments, the 1oz agave syrup brings a natural sweetness to balance the potent tequila. Use less and you risk the drink being too sharp; more, and your drink is cloyingly sweet. Alternatives: Honey could work, giving a different kind of sweet hug to your taste buds, but it'll change the flavor profile.
Mary Mitkina
Water
A barspoon of water isn't just to get your daily H2O—it integrates the agave and helps the muddling process. Omitting it might make the drink feel a bit like a dictatorship without enough dilution. Alternatives: If you want to up the ante, use soda water for a bubbly zing.
Alex Green
Mint Sprigs
4 sprigs for muddling plus 1 for garnish—because without mint, it's not a julep, it's just a sad, leafless tequila. Mint adds a fresh, aromatic coolness that takes you to an imaginary Mexican garden. Fewer leaves and it's like a garden in winter; too many and it's a jungle in there. Alternatives: Basil could give an interesting twist, but then we're in a whole new cocktail territory.
Emma Rose
Crushed Ice
As needed, because no one likes a lukewarm cocktail. It chills, dilutes, and makes everything nice. Get it right, and it's like snowflakes in a glass; get it wrong, and you're drinking a slushy or tequila on the rocks.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Mexican Julep Drink
- Muddle the mint sprigs in a pewter mug to release the oils.
- Add agave syrup and a barspoon of water and mix.
- Fill the mug with crushed ice.
- Pour in the Sauza® 901® Tequila and stir well.
- Top up with more crushed ice if needed.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Mug: Place your pewter mug in the freezer before preparing the cocktail to keep it frosty.
- Slap the Mint: Before garnishing, slap the mint sprig against your hand to awaken the aroma.
- Quality Tequila: Use a premium tequila to ensure the best flavor and smoothness in your Mexican Julep.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Ceviche: The freshness of the seafood complements the mint and tequila's crispness.
- Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: The creamy texture and rich flavor of guacamole balance the sharpness of the cocktail.
Main Courses
- Grilled Chicken or Fish Tacos: Lightly seasoned tacos can uplift the refreshing nature of the Mexican Julep without overwhelming it.
- Carnitas: The savory flavors of the slow-cooked pork will be a beautiful contrast to the cool and minty notes of the drink.
Desserts
- Lime Sorbet: A tangy sorbet will echo the citrus notes in the tequila and provide a sweet end.
- Churros: The cinnamon sugar on the churros would complement the herbal mint flavor of the cocktail.
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What you could change in Mexican Julep
- Tequila: Any high-quality blanco tequila can be used in place of Sauza® 901®.
- Agave Syrup: Honey or simple syrup can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will change.
- Mint: There's no substitute for fresh mint in this cocktail.
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And of course - twists🍹
Classic Mint Julep Twist
Swap the tequila for bourbon and you've got yourself a classic Kentucky Derby favorite. The rich caramel notes of the bourbon complement the mint perfectly.
Ingredients: Bourbon, Mint, Agave Syrup, Water, Crushed Ice Recipe: Follow the same steps, but with bourbon, for a Southern twist on this Mexican classic.
Spicy Jalapeño Julep
Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño before muddling for an extra kick that'll make your tastebuds tango.
Ingredients: Sauza® 901® Tequila, Agave Syrup, Water, Mint Sprigs, Jalapeño Slices, Crushed Ice Recipe: Add jalapeño slices with the mint and follow the same steps. Prepare for a spicy surprise.
Fruity Mango Julep
Muddle in some ripe mango chunks for a sweet, fruity variation that feels like a tropical vacation.
Ingredients: Sauza® 901® Tequila, Agave Syrup, Water, Mint Sprigs, Mango Chunks, Crushed Ice Recipe: Add mango chunks with the mint and follow the same steps. Enjoy a burst of tropical flavor with every sip.
In case you forgot basics how to make Mexican Julep
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirThe key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.
Learn everything on how to muddleGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Mexican Julep
What is the proper way to muddle mint for a cocktail?
When muddling mint, it's important to gently press and twist the leaves with a muddler in the glass. This releases the essential oils without shredding the leaves, which can lead to a bitter taste.
Can I make a batch of Mexican Julep for a party?
Yes, you can scale up the recipe and mix it in a pitcher or large bowl, leaving out the ice until serving to prevent dilution. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need.
What type of ice is best for the Mexican Julep?
Crushed ice is preferred as it chills the drink quickly and helps maintain a consistent temperature, which is ideal for the Mexican Julep.
Are there non-alcoholic versions of the Mexican Julep?
Yes, a mocktail version can be created by substituting the tequila with a non-alcoholic spirit or simply leaving it out and increasing the amount of agave syrup and water slightly.
How should I store fresh mint to keep it fresh for cocktails?
Fresh mint should be stored in the refrigerator, with the stems in a glass of water and the leaves covered loosely with a plastic bag.
Can the Mexican Julep be served in a different type of glass?
Traditionally, a pewter mug is used, but you can serve the Mexican Julep in a highball glass or even in a mason jar for a casual presentation.
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