In this wilderness of concrete and asphalt known as New York City, there are lovely little spots of green, hidden away around nondescript corners. Of course there are parks, and of course there are community gardens, but I have found...an actual backyard!
Well, I haven't actually found it. One of my coworkers lives in the brownstone attached to it. But that's not important.
What IS important is that, growing in this postage-stamp-sized yard is an abundance of MINT! And my coworker brought me some!!!
So what did I do? I made it sweet and drinkable.
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| Isn't it a pretty color? |
Mint Simple Syrup (recipe from Epicurious)
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups packed mint leaves
Roughly chop the mint leaves and mix all ingredients in a saucepan. Heat to a boil, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, strain solids and store in the fridge. *The recipe says it keeps for 2 weeks, but I've found it's good much longer than that.*
Pretty containers are excellent for giving this as a gift, or to repay your mint supplier.
This is excellent for pouring over cakes or berries for an easy dessert, or mixing with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing summer beverage.
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| Straining the goodness... |
This is a really simple version of a mint julep. Make it this weekend when you're watching the Belmont Stakes!
Mint Julep
Fill a glass with crushed ice. Pour a jigger (1 1/2 ounce) of bourbon over ice, followed by 1 or 2 tablespoons of mint simple syrup. Swirl the glass around to mix.
I'll Have Another! (get it?)
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