Mojito Cocktail Recipe

Mojito Nutrition Facts

Calories:168

Fat:0g

Protein:0.1g

Carbohydrates:12g

Alcohol %:13.3

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Mojito is a traditional Cuban highball that has gained worldwide popularity. It is believed to have originated in the 16th century when the indigenous people of Cuba used a similar concoction to treat illnesses. The modern Mojito we know today was popularized in Havana, Cuba, and is often associated with the famous writer Ernest Hemingway.

  • The name 'Mojito' is derived from the African word 'mojo', which means 'to cast a little spell'.
  • The cocktail became popular in the United States during the Prohibition era when Americans traveled to Cuba to enjoy alcohol.
  • The Mojito is a favorite among celebrities and has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows.

How Mojito Tastes?

The Mojito is a refreshing, sweet, and slightly sour cocktail with a hint of mint and a subtle rum kick. It is a well-balanced drink that is both invigorating and easy to sip.

Interesting facts about Mojito

  • The Mojito is the national drink of Cuba.
  • The cocktail is often associated with Ernest Hemingway, who was a frequent patron of La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana, where he enjoyed Mojitos.
  • The Mojito has inspired numerous variations, such as the Strawberry Mojito and the Coconut Mojito.

Ingredients

White rum

White rum is the backbone of our Mojito, giving it that kick of Caribbean sunshine. Too little, and you're just sipping a minty lime soda; too much, and you're on the fast track to a hangover hideaway.

Mary Mitkina

Fresh lime juice

It’s the zesty soul of the party! Skimp on the lime, and the Mojito becomes a timid wallflower. If limes are out of reach, lemons can pinch-hit, but prepare for a slightly different tang.

Alex Green

Simple syrup

Sweetness to balance the tart lime and a smooth talker for soothing the rum’s robustness. Without it, you'll wonder why you're punishing yourself with a sour concoction.

Emma Rose

Fresh mint leaves

These guys are the cool kids, adding a fresh, aromatic breeze to every sip—no mint, no Mojito! It's like a beach without the ocean. Want a twist? Try basil for an herby surprise.

Mary Mitkina

Soda water

Brings the bubbly laughter to this cocktail fiesta. It hydrates and extends the drink without dulling the flavors. Forget the soda, and you've just made a clumsy cousin of the classic.

Alex Green

Crushed ice

It keeps the party cool and dilutes the mix just right as it melts. Big chunks? No, thank you. They'd hog the dance floor and bump into the fresh flavors.

Emma Rose

Garnish: Mint sprig and lime wheel

The final flourish that makes you say, 'Ooh, pretty!' Plus, the mint up top whispers aromas directly to your nose, setting up those taste buds for what's to come.

Mary Mitkina

Recipe. How to make Mojito Drink

  1. In a highball glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup to release the mint's essential oils.
  2. Add the fresh lime juice and white rum to the glass.
  3. Fill the glass with crushed ice and stir well to mix the ingredients.
  4. Top with soda water and give it a final gentle stir.
  5. Garnish with a mint sprig and a lime wheel.

Pro Tips

  • Muddle the mint gently. Over-muddling can lead to a bitter taste.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
  • Chill the glass before preparing the cocktail to keep it cool longer.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

  • Grilled seafood: The citrusy notes of a Mojito complement the sweetness of prawns or lobster.
  • Chicken tacos: The fresh mint and zesty lime cut through richer, spicy flavors.
  • Summer salads: Pair with a fresh salad with vinaigrette dressing to enhance the Mojito's crispness.
  • Sushi: The cocktail's lightness pairs beautifully with delicate fish flavors.

Drink Pairings

  • Light beers: Enhance your refreshment experience by keeping alcohol levels moderate and flavors complementary.

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What you could change in Mojito

  • White rum: Can be replaced with dark rum for a deeper flavor.
  • Simple syrup: Can be replaced with brown sugar or honey.
  • Fresh mint leaves: Can be replaced with basil for a different twist.

Explore all drinks starting with M here

And of course - twists🍹

Berry Mojito

  • Ingredients: White rum, lime juice, mint, mixed berries, simple syrup, soda water, crushed ice
  • Recipe: Muddle berries with mint and syrup, add lime and rum, top with ice and soda. This berrylicious twist is a fruity fiesta that dances on your taste buds!

Coconut Mojito

  • Ingredients: Coconut rum, lime juice, mint, coconut cream, pineapple juice, soda water, crushed ice
  • Recipe: Muddle mint with coconut cream, add lime and coconut rum, mix in pineapple juice, and finish with ice and soda. It’s like a tropical holiday in a glass, with a creamy, piña colada-esque vibe.

Spicy Mojito

  • Ingredients: White rum, lime juice, mint, simple syrup, jalapeño slices, soda water, crushed ice
  • Recipe: Muddle jalapeño with mint and syrup, add lime and rum, finish with ice and soda. This fiery number adds a kick that's not for the faint of heart, but perfect for the heat seekers!

In case you forgot basics how to make Mojito

The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.

Learn everything about simple syrup

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

The key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.

Learn everything on how to muddle

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Mojito

What's the best type of rum to use for a Mojito?

Typically, a white rum is used in Mojitos for its lighter and more subtly sweet flavor, which complements the fresh mint and lime well. However, a gold or dark rum can also be used for a stronger, more robust holiday.

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is always recommended as it adds a fresh and tangy flavor that complements the rum and mint. Bottled lime juice can often be more acidic, and have an artificial taste.

What does the soda water do in a Mojito?

Soda water adds a gentle fizz to the Mojito, making the drink lighter and more refreshing. It also helps to dilute the strength of the rum.

Can I prepare Mojito in advance for a party?

It is possible to prepare the Mojito mix (rum, lime juice, sugar, and mint) in advance, but it's best to add the soda water and ice just before serving to keep it fresh and fizzy.

What are some good food pairings with a Mojito?

Mojito pairs well with light and fresh dishes. It's great with seafood, particularly dishes with a hint of spice, and also pairs well with citrus-flavored salads and tropical fruit plates.

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