Mint Julep Kombucha Cocktail Recipe

This Mint Julep Kombucha Cocktail recipe has 4 ingredients and takes 5 minutes to make.  Try this twist on a classic mint julep while you’re watching the derby or when you just want to wear a big hat and feel a little fancy.

A kombucha cocktail? I already know what you’re thinking.  Before you roll your eyes at me, let me plead my case.  I’ve been on a bit of a kombucha kick for awhile now.  So much so that I’ve started brewing my own at home, which lead me to wonder what else I could do with it.   If you are unfamiliar with kombucha, let me explain what it is.  It’s fermented tea.  Does that mean it’s alcoholic on its own?  Barely.  The alcohol content is so low (we’re talking about a half of one percent), that it isn’t an issue for me.  Clearly, since I just threw a shot of bourbon in it.

Why a kombucha cocktail?

Kombucha has been around for centuries.  The western world is a bit late to the party.  It has a lot going for it; it’s a great source of probiotics (good for your gut), it’s usually made with green tea, so you get all the benefits of that and it’s just really tasty.  This cocktail is practically good for you, should you need any further convincing.

I’m a fan of good bourbon, this is no secret, especially if you’ve been here for awhile.  Since the Kentucky Derby is approaching, I felt like this was the perfect time to debut a kombucha cocktail.  The zingy, fizziness of the kombucha (or booch) goes really well with the mint julep.  Plus, you get a mini arm workout with that 2 minutes of muddling.  

I really like this version of the julep, but if you are looking for a classic mint julep recipe, I recommend this one from Alton Brown.

Making this mint julep kombucha cocktail is simple.  Measure out your ingredients, muddle the sugar and mint together, then add ice, bourbon and top with kombucha.  It will have your taste buds singing in about the same time as a commercial break.  I happen to know that for a fact.

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• Caramel Buttered Bourbon
• Restaurant-Style Bloody Mary
• Rosé Sangria with Summer Fruits

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Mint Julep Kombucha Cocktail Recipe

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Ingredients

• 1 - 1 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1 1/2 ounces 1 shot bourbon
• 8 leaves mint + extra for garnish
• 2 - 3 ounces kombucha
• crushed ice

Instructions

1. Place mint leaves and sugar in a glass. Muddle until the mint leaves have broken down and it resembles a sandy mixture. Add crushed ice to the glass and pour bourbon over the ice.
2. Mix vigorously to incorporate the sugar.
3. Top with kombucha and garnish with additional mint if desired.
4. Put on big, fancy hat. (optional)

Notes

CHEF'S NOTES:
These measurements are not set in stone. If you prefer a stronger drink, add 2 ounces of bourbon. Adjust amounts to suit your personal taste.
Add kombucha last! You want to retain the fizz. Also, taste your kombucha before adding to the drink. If it's on the sweet side, you'll need less sugar. If it's tart, add a pinch more sugar.