3 Times Thursday - Derby Drinks Recipe
This Saturday is the 142nd running of the Kentucky Derby, and maybe Mint Juleps aren't your thing. That's okay, because for today's 3 Times Thursday, we have three tasty alternatives (one is thisclose to the traditional cocktail) you can sip on while you watch the horses.
#3. Rummin' Tea - Iced tea and rum. For the porch rocker in you.
1 part Sailor Jerry rum
2 parts slightly sweetened iced tea
Combine ingredients in a tall glass over ice. Garnish with lemon or mint if desired.
#2. The Berry Patch - Fresh, sweet, and perfect for a sunny Saturday afternoon. Makes 2 drinks.
Ingredients:
2-3 fresh strawberries, chopped
2-3 leaves fresh basil, torn
1/3 cup cranberry juice (100% juice, not cranberry cocktail)
1/4 cup vodka
ice
club soda (optional)
extra berries and/or basil leaves for garnish
Muddle the strawberries and basil together in a cocktail shaker. Fill shaker with ice, then add cranberry juice, lemonade. Allow to sit for 10-15 minutes, then cover and shake vigorously. Strain into chilled martini glasses. Add a splash of club soda on top if you like it bubbly, and garnish as desired.
#1. Blackberry Mint Julep - This one is for those traditionalists who like living on the edge. Recipe makes 2 cocktails.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup blackberries (saving 2 for garnish)
- 4 tablespoons mint leaves (saving 2 for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 ounces bourbon
In a large cocktail shaker, muddle together the blackberries, mint and sugar. Fill shaker with ice then add bourbon. Shake well, then strain into two ice-filled cocktail glasses. Serve garnished with a mint leaf and a blackberry.