For someone who doesn’t ride horses or follow horse races, Derby Day is more significant to me than you might think.
Why, you ask?
- My mom grew up in a small town in Kentucky, where horse riding was a popular hobby.
- I grew up in Hot Springs, AR, the home of the Oaklawn Racing track.
- I got married on Derby Day in Arkansas in 2012.
I’ve also done some volunteering activities with kids and horses, and I’m fascinated by these beautiful creatures!
Additionally, there is such a great food, drink and hat culture around the Derby.
We all probably know about the popularity of mint juleps in Kentucky at the Derby, but have you ever made one? I hadn’t until last weekend when I got a hankerin’.
And guess what? They’re super easy to make. Just grab some fresh mint and some bourbon, and you’re set. They’re herbal, nutty, sweet with a kick, and I think you’ll love them…whether you’re watching the Kentucky Derby this weekend or not.
Maybe you want to make some Derby Pie Bars to go along with them.
*Click or tap on recipe card to enlarge and save.