📖 Instructions

1. **Prepare the Oatmeal Infusion:** In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will create a milky, flavorful infusion. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. **Strain the Oatmeal Infusion:** Place a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth (or a nut milk bag) over a bowl. Pour the oatmeal mixture into the sieve and let it strain, pressing gently to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids. You should have about 1 cup of oatmeal infusion. Don't skip this step; its vital. I messed up on this one time and I was not happy with the results!
3. **Muddle the Strawberries and Mint:** In a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker, combine the fresh strawberries and mint leaves. Gently muddle them together to release their flavors. Don't over-muddle, as this can make the mint bitter. About 10-12 gentle presses should do the trick.
4. **Add the Oatmeal Infusion and Lime Juice:** Pour the strained oatmeal infusion and fresh lime juice into the glass or cocktail shaker with the muddled strawberries and mint.
5. **Sweeten to Taste:** Add agave syrup (or simple syrup) to the mixture, starting with 1 tablespoon. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust the sweetness as needed. Remember, strawberries can vary in sweetness, so you might need a little more or less syrup. My personal favorite is to add just a tad bit more for that extra kick!
6. **Add Ice and Shake (or Stir):** Fill the glass or cocktail shaker with ice cubes. If using a cocktail shaker, secure the lid and shake well for about 15-20 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients. If not using a shaker, simply stir well with a long spoon.
7. **Strain and Serve:** Strain the julep into a chilled glass filled with crushed ice. This will remove the muddled fruit and mint, leaving you with a smooth, refreshing drink.
8. **Garnish and Enjoy:** Garnish your Strawberry Mint Oatmeal Julep with a fresh strawberry slice and a sprig of mint. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors! If youre feeling spunky, you can even rim the glass with sugar to bring it to the next level.
9. **Optional: Add a Splash of Bourbon:** For an adult version, add 1-2 ounces of bourbon to the cocktail shaker before shaking (or stirring). This adds a warm, boozy kick that complements the other flavors beautifully. I tried it once, and now I can’t go back!
10. **Adjusting Sweetness:** If the Julep is too sweet, try adding a little more lime juice to balance it out. If it's not sweet enough, add a little more agave or simple syrup until it reaches your preferred level of sweetness. I personally use less syrup. But I know some people like it extra sweet!