Time for one of the world’s most popular cocktails – the Cuban classic that brings together rum, mint, lime, and sugar in perfect harmony. The Mojito is a perfect example of a balanced cocktail, combining the sweetness of sugar with fresh citrus, aromatic mint, and quality rum.
A bit of history The Mojito’s origins can be traced back to Cuba, where it evolved from the “El Draque” – a medicinal concoction of crude rum, mint, lime and sugar used in the 16th century. The modern Mojito emerged in Havana, where it became a favorite of locals and visitors alike, helping establish Cuba’s reputation for exceptional rum-based cocktails.
Making your Mojito
You will need:
- Collins/Highball glass
- 50ml Cuban style Rum
- 25ml fresh Lime juice
- 15ml sugar syrup (gomme)
- 8-12 fresh mint leaves
- Soda water
- Crushed ice
- Bar spoon
Mixing Method
The key to a great Mojito is in the handling of the mint. We want to release the essential oils without turning the leaves to mulch, so technique is important here.
First, take your mint leaves and give them a gentle ‘slap’ between your palms. This might seem strange, but it helps release those precious aromatic oils without tearing the leaves. Place them into your Collins glass.
Add your measured lime juice and sugar syrup to the glass. Many bars actually use 2 bar spoons of white or brown sugar instead of syrup – both methods work well, though sugar syrup dissolves more easily in the cold liquid.
Fill your glass about 2/3 full with crushed ice. Pour in your Cuban style rum (remember, we want that lighter style of rum here – save your dark aged rums for another drink).
Using your bar spoon, churn all the ingredients together. This gentle mixing action helps combine everything while letting the mint release its flavors without becoming bitter. The ice will start to mix with the other ingredients, providing just the right amount of dilution.
Top up your glass with more crushed ice, then add a splash of soda water – just enough to give the drink a light effervescence without drowning it.
Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint (give it another gentle slap to release the oils) and a wedge of lime.
Variations to Try
Strawberry Mojito
Add 2-3 fresh strawberries and muddle them gently with the mint at the start
Royal Mojito
Replace the soda water with champagne or prosecco for an elegant twist
Spiced Mojito
Use a spiced rum instead of white rum for a more complex flavor profile
Pro Tips
- Always use fresh mint – the fresher the better
- Don’t over-muddle the mint leaves – you want to release the oils, not shred the leaves
- Use crushed ice rather than cubed – it helps blend the flavors better and keeps the drink properly chilled
- Quality Cuban-style rum makes a big difference – this is not the drink for your heaviest, darkest rum
- If using sugar instead of syrup, make sure it’s fully dissolved before adding the rum
The Mojito is one of those drinks that really showcases the importance of fresh ingredients and proper technique. When made well, it’s crisp, refreshing, and perfectly balanced between sweet, sour, and mint notes, with the rum providing a solid foundation that brings everything together.
Happy mixing!
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