The julep goes tropical
The Caju Amigo Julep reimagines the classic bourbon mint julep. “Caju” (or cashew fruit) is native to South America and was spread around the world by Portuguese sailors. Aged cachaça takes on touches of whiskey. Refreshing, but beware: this dangerously smooth cocktail packs a strong punch.
Ingredients
metric standard60 ml aged cachaça (or substitute with bonded rye)
60 ml cashew juice syrup
10 mint sprigs
1 dash aromatic bitters
Crushed cashews
Mint (garnish)
Preparation
Combine cachaça, cashew juice syrup, and mint in a julep cup, and gently muddle. Add ½ scoop of ice and stir with a swizzle stick or barspoon. Top with more ice, mint, aromatic bitters, and crushed cashews. Garnish with mint. Best enjoyed through a straw.
For cashew juice syrup, juice cashew fruit. Add sugar (use 1:1 juice and sugar) to a pot. Turn on medium to low heat until sugar dissolves. Cool and strain out any solids before use.