Mint Leaf, Sugar, Superfine, Lime Juice, Light Rum, Soda Water, Mint Leaf
In your glass, add white granulated sugar and fresh lime juice. Gently muddle the mint leaves in the sugar and lime mixture. Add rum and fill the glass with ice cubes. Top up with soda water and give it a quick stir. Garnish with a sprig of mint.
Written by Michael Bergström
Seafaring nations, Pirates, the triangular trade, exclusive spices and herbs, malnutrition and rationing are all parts of the Mojito's adventurous story. While the exact origin of the Mojito is debated among historians, many believe it to have emerged in the 16th century when Aguardiente de Cana, or its dishevelled cousin Tafia, was mixed with sugar cane juice, lime, and mint. This concoction, known as ’El Draque’ after the explorer Sir Francis Drake, was likely used by sailors and pirates in the Caribbean to combat tropical illnesses and scurvy.
However, the Mojito as we know it today has Cuban roots. During the pre-revolution era, Cuba was like a tropical Las Vegas, attracting celebrities and taste-makers who brought Mojitos, Daiquiris, and Cuba Libres back to the rest of the world.
What alcohol is best for Mojito?
Rum is the best alcohol for a Mojito. However, other spirits like gin, vodka, tequila, whisky, baiju, pisco, or even aquavit can be used instead of the classic rum.
Do I need to muddle the Mint?
We recommend gently bruising the mint leaves rather than muddling them completely. Use the back of a bar spoon or a fork to release the essential oils without crushing the leaves. No one wants to spend the night picking little green pieces of mint from between their teeth. If you’re set on muddling you can make the drinks and muddle the mint in a cocktail shaker and then strain into the glass.
Can Mojito be alcohol-free?
Absolutely! Leaving out the rum will result in a delicious minted lemonade. The drink still resembles a Mojito even without alcohol.
What you need
Tools & Glassware:
Highball glass
Muddler
Ingredients:
Fresh mint leaves
Cuban Rum, preferably 3 Años
Freshly squeezed lime juice
Sugar or simple syrup
Properly carbonated club soda
Good quality cubed ice (Preferably 1-inch cubes)
Step by Step
• Squeeze fresh lime juice into the glass.
• Add sugar and stir, ensuring everything’s dissolved before adding the mint.
• Gently bruise the mint leaves in the lime and sugar mixture.
• Add the rum and stir.
• Fill the glass with ice.
• Top up the glass with club soda and give it another gentle stir.
• Garnish with a sprig of mint.
Editor’s Note: Optionally, you can garnish with a Lime Wedge as well!