Craving that perfect Mojito from your favorite bar? This authentic Cuban recipe delivers the refreshing balance of rum, mint, and lime you’re looking for. We’ll show you the simple technique that makes all the difference between he watered-down disappointment you’ve been settling for and cocktail perfection.
Watch 🎥: How to Make a Cuban Mojito
What Is a Mojito Cocktail?
The Mint Mojito is a traditional Cuban highball cocktail featuring white rum, fresh lime juice, mint leaves, sugar, and soda water. This refreshing classic originated in Havana, with some historical accounts tracing it back to the 16th century when Sir Francis Drake’s crew used a primitive version with aguardiente (a precursor to rum), lime, and mint as a remedy for various ailments.
Its name likely derives from “mojo,” a Cuban seasoning made with lime, or possibly from “mojadito” (Spanish for “a little wet“).
What you’ll love about this recipe:
What You Need to Make a Mint Mojito Cocktail
How to Make a Classic Mint Mojito
- Place mint leaves and simple syrup in a highball glass and gently muddle to release the mint oils without shredding the leaves.
- Add the fresh lime juice and white rum to the glass, stirring briefly to combine.
- Fill the glass with ice, tuck in lime wedges between the ice and glass for aesthetic appeal and additional citrus notes.
- Top with soda water and stir gently to incorporate all elements without losing carbonation.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig, lightly slapped between your palms to release the aromatic oils.
Bartender’s Tips
- Tip 1: The muddling technique is crucial – press just enough to release oils without pulverizing the leaves, which can lead to bitter flavors that ruin the entire cocktail.
- Tip 2: For a less sweet version, reduce the simple syrup to ½ oz and adjust to taste, or substitute with agave nectar for a different dimension.
- Tip 3: Pre-chill your highball glass for an extra refreshing experience that maintains the cocktail’s temperature longer.
- Tip 4: For entertaining, prepare a batch of the rum, lime, and simple syrup mixture ahead of time, adding the mint, ice, and soda water to individual glasses when serving.
How to serve this cocktail
Serve in a highball glass with plenty of ice, allowing the mint garnish to rise prominently above the rim, creating an aromatic introduction with each sip. The Mojito shines on warm evenings, especially as an pairing with Latin-inspired cuisine or lighter fare. For an elevated presentation, consider using crystalline clear ice and a straw for practicality without compromising sophistication.
More Cocktail Recipes
Looking to expand your rum repertoire? Explore our collection of premium rum cocktails that showcase this versatile spirit’s remarkable depth. From the complex Rum Old Fashioned to the tropical allure of the Daiquiri, we’ve curated only the finest expressions for your consideration.
Mint Mojito Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz white rum
- ¾ oz simple syrup
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 8 –10 fresh mint leaves
- 2 –3 lime wedges
- Soda water to top
- Mint sprig for garnish
- Ice
Instructions
- Gently muddle mint leaves and simple syrup in a glass.
- Add lime juice and rum.
- Fill the glass with ice and tuck in the lime wedges.
- Top with soda water and stir gently.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
Video
Recipe FAQs
Traditional Cuban rums like Havana Club offer exceptional authenticity, but quality Puerto Rican options like Bacardi Superior or Don Q Cristal provide excellent results. Avoid aged rums which can overpower the delicate mint.
Create a base mixture of rum, lime juice, and simple syrup in a pitcher. When serving, add a few mint leaves to each glass, lightly muddle, add the base mixture, ice, and top with soda water for consistently excellent results.
Over-muddling the mint leaves releases bitter compounds from the leaves’ veins and stems. Gentle pressure is all that’s needed – the goal is to release oils, not to macerate the mint.
While both feature mint prominently, the Julep uses bourbon instead of rum, omits lime juice, and doesn’t include soda water – creating a stronger, more spirit-forward experience compared to the lighter, effervescent Mojito.
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