The summer is far from over in the Deep South, so you might as well sit back with a cool drink in hand and embrace the fact that we made it through another August. Here are a few recipes to help you end the summer well.
Citrus Mint Julep
No southern summer is complete without this quintessential drink. I've offered a Yankee twist because, well, I can't help myself. (Serves 4).
1 cup fresh orange juice
1 cup fresh tangerine juice
3 limes, juiced
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1 cup club soda
4 sprigs fresh mint
5 ounces chilled bourbon
Crushed ice
Mix the juices, sugar and chopped mint together in a glass jar with lid (Preferably a mason jar because it's more southern that way). It is best to let the mix sit overnight so the sugar dissolves. If you are in a hurry, you can continue, but do so at your own risk.
When ready to serve, put crushed ice into tall glasses and pour in the liquor and club soda. Strain the juice mixture and pour into the glasses. Garnish with mint sprigs.
Pomegranate Mojito
A trendy take on a classic. Use this recipe, or visit Tara Lynn at Pi(e) Lounge and have her mix you this fantastic liquid relief for the long Mississippi summers. (Serves 4).
4 tablespoons sugar
2 ounces fresh lime juice
12 or more mint leaves, to taste
12 ounces white rum
1 cup pomegranate juice
Soda water
Combine the sugar, lime juice and mint leaves in tall glasses and mash with the back of a spoon. Add the rum and pomegranate juice. Fill glass with ice. Top with a splash of soda water.
Sun Punch
This is the easiest drink you'll make all summer, and possibly the most refreshing. If I'm not in the office, you'll find me on some grassy knoll with one of these and a book in my hand. (Serves as many as you want to make).
3 parts Strawberry Lemonade
1 part rum or gin
Ice
Fill glass with ice. Pour lemonade and rum over the ice and stir. Sit in the sun and enjoy.
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