Basil Cranberry Julep Recipe
This recipe guides you through crafting a sophisticated Basil Cranberry Julep. It features a homemade cranberry syrup combined with smoky mezcal, agave nectar, and fresh muddled basil, creating a vibrant and well-balanced cocktail with a refreshing herbal twist, perfect for a modern take on a classic.
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan For preparing the cranberry syrup
- 1 Jigger or Measuring Cups/Spoons For precise ingredient measurements
- 1 Cocktail Shaker For mixing and chilling the drink
- 1 Muddler For gently bruising basil leaves
- 1 Strainer To separate ice and basil fragments from the drink
Ingredients
Main
- For the Cranberry Syrup:
- 2 cups 100% pure unsweetened cranberry juice such as Knudsen Just Cranberry
- 1 cup sugar
- For Each Drink:
- 2 ounces mezcal
- 1 ounce cranberry syrup
- 1/4 ounce agave nectar
- 6 basil leaves
- Garnish: basil leaves and 1/4 ounce extra cranberry syrup
Instructions
- To prepare the cranberry syrup, combine 2 cups of cranberry juice and 1 cup of sugar in a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring to a gentle simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool completely.
- In a cocktail shaker, add 6 fresh basil leaves and gently muddle them just enough to release their aromatic oils.
- Add 2 ounces of mezcal, 1 ounce of the prepared cranberry syrup, and 1/4 ounce of agave nectar to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
- Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds, until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Fill a Julep cup or rocks glass with fresh crushed ice.
- Strain the cocktail mixture from the shaker into the prepared glass, discarding the muddled basil and ice.
- Garnish the drink with fresh basil leaves.
- For an extra touch, drizzle an additional 1/4 ounce of cranberry syrup over the top before serving.
Notes
1. When making the cranberry syrup, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved over medium heat, but avoid aggressive boiling, which can over-reduce the liquid too quickly. Allow it to cool completely before use. 2. Gently muddle the basil; the goal is to release aromatic oils, not to pulverize the leaves, which can introduce bitterness. 3. The choice of mezcal significantly impacts the drink's profile; an espadin mezcal offers a balanced smokiness. Adjust agave nectar to taste, depending on the sweetness of your cranberry syrup and personal preference. Serve over crushed ice in a chilled Julep cup for optimal presentation and temperature.