Give Your Mint Julep A Nimbu Pani Twist

By Aanchal Mathur

A refreshing crossover between a margarita and a mint julep, this one is packed with citrus flavors and is a great way to cool down on a hot summer day.

Ingredients

1/2 cup sugar 3/4 teaspoon black rock salt 1/2 bunch fresh mint leaves, plus more for muddling and 1 sprig for garnish 1/2 bunch fresh mint leaves, plus more for muddling and 1 sprig for garnish   2 juicy limes Crushed or shaved ice 2 ounces good-quality Kentucky bourbon Seltzer water 

Combine 1/2 cup water with the sugar, black salt and mint in a small saucepan.

Heat over medium-high heat until the sugar and salt dissolve into a sweet and salty simple syrup.

Strain the syrup and transfer to the fridge to cool. Discard the mint leaves. Squeeze the limes into a pitcher and add the chilled simple syrup. 

Crush or muddle a few mint leaves in the bottom of an 8-ounce mint julep cup until they form a paste. Fill halfway with ice.

Add 2 ounces of the simple syrup and the bourbon and top with seltzer. Stir until the silver cup is frosted on the outside.

To serve, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. Reserve the remaining simple syrup for additional drinks.