One of our favorite summertime drinks is the classic (or flavored) mojito, and we know we can’t be alone in this, so as you’re starting to think about what kind of drinks you want to serve at future summer gatherings, consider a pitcher of this refreshing beverage!
(image via: istock)
What is a Mojito?
A mojito is a classic Cuban drink that incorporates a number of ingredients indigenous to Cuba, such as rum, lime, mint, and sugar. While a mojito doesn’t require a lot of ingredients, it does require a certain amount of work; for instance, the first step involves muddling the lime, sugar, and mint before you add your rum, then top off your drink with club soda. This drink is refreshing, fizzy, sweet, and herbaceous making it the perfect summertime drink to sip on while sitting poolside or outside with friends.
What is Needed to Make a Mojito?
Rum. Always opt for a white rum rather than a spiced rum to keep your drink light and refreshing.
Mint. You can find fresh mint at grocery stores, nab some from your local farmer’s market, or grow your own.
Lime. Fresh lime, of course.
Sugar. A traditional mojito calls for real sugar, but you can also opt to use simple syrup.
Club Soda. This is what you’ll top your drink off with and this is what gives your mojito that classic fizziness.
Muddler. A muddler isn’t totally necessary for mojito making, but it does make things easier. If you don’t have a muddler, you can use the end of a wooden spoon.
(image via: istock)
A Few Mojito Making Tips
- If you opt to use simple syrup, make sure it’s just that and not another kind of syrup, any other syrup will agitate your drink.
- If you find your mojito is a little on the sweet side, you can add a touch of bitters to kill some of the sweetness.
- If you’re jonesing for a mojito but only have lemons, that’s okay! You may find you need to use a little extra sugar or simple syrup, but this will make for a fun twist on a classic.
- Always slap your mint before adding it to your drink, this will ensure that the flavor of the mint is going to filter through your drink versus tearing your mint leaves which will filter not only the essence of mint but the bitterness of the leaves as well.