The taste of ginger is one that I find unique and exciting. The Kentucky Derby takes place on May 5, and Gail Simmons, host of Bravo’s Top Chef puts a spin on the traditional Derby mint julep with this recipe for Lemon Ginger Julep with Pure Leaf Iced Tea.
But before we get to the recipe, let’s review the top five contenders for the 2012 Kentucky Derby to take home the title:
Horse:
1.) Hansen
2.) Union Rags
3.) Creative Cause
4.) Gemologist
5.) Dullahan
LEMON GINGER “TULEP”
Makes one serving
3 tablespoons simple ginger syrup (recipe below)
6 to 8 fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
Ice
1 cup Lemon Pure Leaf Iced Tea
Cold club soda
Candied ginger, for garnish
In an old-fashioned glass, muddle simple ginger syrup with mint leaves. Add ice and Lemon Pure Leaf Iced Tea; stir well. Top with a splash of club soda and garnish with a slice of candied ginger and a sprig of mint.
To make a cocktail: Add 1.5 ounces of overproof Kentucky bourbon before adding the tea.
Developed by: Gail Simmons, a judge on BRAVO’s “Top Chef” and Food & Wine magazine contributor
GINGER SIMPLE SYRUP
Makes 1 1/2 cups
1/2 cup fresh ginger, thinly sliced
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups water
In a saucepan, combine the ginger, sugar, and water and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Remove the pan from the heat and then set aside to cool. Strain the syrup and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to one week.