The Perfect Mojito - It's Classic
Joe and I are headed to the Florida Keys on Saturday for some much needed R&R. This has me thinking of the hot sand, fresh seafood and fruity cocktails. This brings me to the perfect summer cocktail – the Mojito. Say it with me now – “moe-hee-toe”. It just sounds like summer, doesn’t it?
Traditionally made with just five ingredients – white rum, sugar cane juice, lime, carbonated water and mint – the Mojito has spawned many variations. Some better than others…the best being the classic.
I’ve had my share of Mojitos – who hasn’t? Mojitos on the beach, Mojitos from the local bar, Mojitos from my favorite restaurants, even Mojitos from chain restaurants -which I should add, are usually not “Mojitos”. The best being the one that takes just a little too long to prepare. “Hey, where’s my drink?”
Any Mojito fan knows that it takes time and good old fashioned elbow grease to properly muddle the lime, sugar syrup and mint.
So what is muddling anyways? Muddling is a somewhat gentle but thorough mashing or bruising of the mint with the sugar and lime at the bottom of a glass. Muddling helps to release the juice and the essential oils in the mint. The mint adds a nice cooling sensation on your tongue. It really is a lovely combination – so refreshing.
So, start your weekend off right – here’s to the Classic Mojito!
The Classic Cuban Mojito
Glass: Highball
Garnish: Mint
- 1 ½ oz. Cuban Rum
- 1 oz. Lime Juice
- ½ oz. Sugar Syrup
- 8-10 Fresh Mint Leaves
- Top with Club Soda
Directions:
1.) Start by muddling the mint leaves, sugar syrup and lime in the base of your glass. Not sure how to muddle? Click here for a muddling demonstration.
2.) Fill your glass with ice, add your rum, and then top off with club soda. Stir and enjoy.