The derby is a grand party where sports, fashion, and food come together in the South. It’s known for its luxury, thanks to Kentucky’s famous bourbon, the excitement of betting, and the impressive horses and stylish guests.
Regardless of the reasons, the “greatest two minutes in sports” is a time for celebration. To honor the Race of the Roses, we have created Bourbon-soaked Cherries, a delightful treat that captures the essence of the South while keeping your Sunday best intact.
Bourbon-soaked Cherries
Bourbon is highly valued in Kentucky, and cherries are the ideal ingredient for infusing it. Although specialty shops sell comparable products, making your own batch provides the opportunity for creative expression. Take on the challenge of creating a delicious and unique bourbon-cherry blend, and experience the fun and gratification of achieving homemade perfection.
Yield: 3 cups
Ingredients
3 cups Rainier cherries, stems attached
2 1/2 cups 1792 Ridgemont Reserve, Woodford Reserve, or other high-quality bourbons
1/3 cup simple syrup
2 tablespoons orange zest
1 vanilla bean, sliced in half lengthwise
Directions
To create a delicious cherry bourbon syrup, you should gather some cherries, bourbon, syrup, and a vanilla bean. Then, combine them all in an airtight jar, ensuring they are mixed thoroughly. Once the mixture is prepared, put the jar in the refrigerator and let it sit for a week. This will allow the cherries to infuse with the bourbon, resulting in a delicious syrup you’ll love.
