Ingredients

Jalapeno Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 jalapeño peppers, sliced

Julep:

• 4 fresh mint leaves, plus 1 sprig for garnish
• 1 oz. Jalapeño Simple Syrup
• Crushed Ice
• 2 1/2 oz. bourbon
• Club Soda
• 1 very thinly sliced jalapeño round, seeded

Directions

1. In a small saucepan over high heat, combine 1 cup water, sugar, and jalapeños. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Remove from heat and let steep for 20 minutes.
2. Strain syrup, discard jalapeños (or save for garnish), and cool syrup. Simple syrup can be refrigerated, in an airtight container, for up to 6 months.
3. In a julep cup, pour 1 oz Jalapeño Simple Syrup and add mint; gently bruise leaves with a muddler or wooden spoon. Add enough crushed ice to fill two-thirds of the cup. Add bourbon and stir gently; then add a bit more crushed ice. Top with a splash of club soda.
4. Garnish with mint sprig and jalapeño.