Discover How to Make the Classic Mojito Cocktail

The mojito, a classic Cuban cocktail, is a refreshing blend of white rum, fresh mint, lime juice, sugar, and soda water. Traditionally served in a highball glass, this drink is perfect for showcasing its vibrant colours and fresh ingredients. The mojito’s crisp, cooling flavours have made it a favourite among cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. But the mojito is not just limited to its traditional form; it serves as a versatile base for a variety of delicious variations. Let’s explore the history of the mojito, the different types of glasses used to serve it, and some popular twists on this timeless drink.

A Brief History of the Mojito

The origins of the mojito can be traced back to 16th-century Cuba. The drink is believed to have ´evolved from a cocktail called “El Draque,” named after the English sea captain and pirate Sir Francis Drake. El Draque was a mix of aguardiente (a precursor to rum), sugar, lime, and mint, and was consumed for its supposed medicinal properties. Over time, as rum production improved, the mojito emerged, becoming a staple in Cuban culture and eventually gaining international fame.

Classic Mojito Glasses

The classic mojito is traditionally served in a highball glass. This tall, narrow glass is perfect for holding the cocktail’s ingredients, allowing for ample muddling space and plenty of room for ice and soda water. The highball glass also helps to keep the drink cool and refreshing, showcasing the vibrant green of the mint and the clear effervescence of the soda water.

The Classic Mojito

The classic mojito is where it all began. This simple yet elegant cocktail is perfect for any occasion, from a summer garden party to a relaxing evening at home.

Mojito Ingredients:

•   10 fresh mint leaves
•   1/2 lime, cut into 4 wedges
•   2 tablespoons white sugar
•   1 cup ice cubes
•   1 1/2 ounces Karisimbi White Rum
•   1/2 cup soda water

Instructions:

1.  In a highball glass, muddle the mint leaves and 1 lime wedge.
2.  Add the remaining lime wedges and sugar, and muddle again to release the lime juice.
3.  Fill the glass with ice, pour the rum over the ice, and top with soda water.
4.  Stir well and garnish with a sprig of mint.

Watermelon Mojito

Image: Shot By Guzman/istockphoto.com

Instructions:

1.  Muddle the mint leaves, lime wedges, and sugar in a highball glass.
2.  Add the watermelon cubes and muddle until well combined.
3.  Fill the glass with ice, pour the rum over the ice, and top with soda water.
4.  Stir gently and garnish with a watermelon slice and a mint sprig.

Strawberry Mojito

For a fruity and refreshing variation, the strawberry mojito combines the sweetness of strawberries with the classic mojito ingredients.

Mojito Ingredients:

•   10 fresh mint leaves
•   1/2 lime, cut into wedges
•   2 tablespoons white sugar
•   4 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
•   1 cup ice cubes
•   1 1/2 ounces Karisimbi White Rum
•   1/2 cup soda water

Instructions:

1.  Muddle the mint leaves, lime wedges, and sugar in a highball glass.
2.  Add the strawberries and muddle until the strawberries are mashed.
3.  Fill the glass with ice, pour the rum over the ice, and top with soda water.
4.  Stir well and garnish with a strawberry slice and a mint sprig.

Pineapple Mojito

The pineapple mojito adds a tropical twist to the classic recipe, bringing a burst of sweet and tangy pineapple flavour.

Mojito Ingredients:

•   10 fresh mint leaves
•   1/2 lime, cut into wedges
•   2 tablespoons white sugar
•   1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks
•   1 cup ice cubes
•   1 1/2 ounces Karisimbi White Rum
•   1/2 cup soda water

Instructions:

1.  Muddle the mint leaves, lime wedges, and sugar in a highball glass.
2.  Add the pineapple chunks and muddle until the pineapple is mashed.
3.  Fill the glass with ice, pour the rum over the ice, and top with soda water.
4.  Stir gently and garnish with a pineapple slice and a mint sprig.

Raspberry Mojito

The Raspberry Mojito is a delightful and refreshing twist on the classic mojito, incorporating the sweet and slightly tart flavour of fresh raspberries. This variation adds a vibrant red colour and a burst of berry flavour.

Ingredients:

• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1 1/2 ounces white rum
• 1/2 cup soda water
• Mint sprig and a few raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. Muddle the Ingredients: In a highball glass, muddle the mint leaves and lime wedges with the sugar. Add the raspberries and muddle gently until the berries are broken down and mixed with the lime and mint.
2. Add Ice and Rum: Fill the glass with ice cubes. Pour the white rum over the ice.
3. Top with Soda Water: Top off with soda water and stir gently to mix all the ingredients.
4. Garnish: Garnish with a mint sprig and a few whole raspberries for a visually appealing presentation.

Coconut Mojito

Instructions:

1.  Muddle the mint leaves, lime wedges, and sugar in a highball glass.
2.  Add the coconut cream and stir until well combined.
3.  Fill the glass with ice, pour the rum over the ice, and top with soda water.
4.  Stir well and garnish with a mint sprig and a lime wedge.

The mojito is a cocktail that lends itself beautifully to experimentation. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of these delicious variations, you’re sure to enjoy a refreshing drink that captures the spirit of summer. So, gather your ingredients, muddle your mint, and raise a highball glass to the versatility and timeless appeal of the mojito. Cheers!

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FAQ’s

What is a skinny girl mojito?

A Skinny Girl Mojito is a lower-calorie version of the classic mojito. It typically uses a sugar substitute (like stevia or a small amount of agave syrup) and less rum, with an emphasis on fresh lime juice and mint to retain flavour while reducing calories.

How to make a mojito without a muddler?

If you don’t have a muddler, you can use the back of a wooden spoon or a similar utensil to gently crush the mint leaves and lime in your glass, releasing their flavours. Be careful not to tear the mint leaves excessively.