Thai Basil Mojito Cocktail Recipe
Thai Basil Mojito Nutrition Facts
Calories:200
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:12g
Alcohol:14%
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
Contents
History
The Thai Basil Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic Cuban Mojito, incorporating the flavors of Thai basil and lemongrass. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy the taste of Southeast Asian cuisine and are looking for a unique and flavorful drink. The combination of Thai basil and lemongrass adds a touch of exoticism to the traditional Mojito, making it a popular choice for adventurous drinkers.
How Thai Basil Mojito Tastes?
The Thai Basil Mojito has a bright, refreshing, and slightly sweet taste with a hint of spiciness from the Thai basil. The lemongrass adds a subtle citrusy note, while the mint provides a cooling sensation. The rum gives the cocktail a smooth and slightly sweet backbone.
Interesting facts about Thai Basil Mojito
- The Thai Basil Mojito is a fusion of Cuban and Thai flavors, combining the classic Mojito with Thai ingredients.
- Thai basil has a unique flavor profile, with a hint of spiciness and a strong anise-like aroma.
- Lemongrass is a common ingredient in Thai cuisine and is known for its citrusy and slightly sweet flavor.
Ingredients
- White rum: 2 oz(60ml)
- Fresh lime juice: 1 oz(30ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Thai basil leaves: 6-8
- Mint leaves: 6-8
- Lemongrass: 1 stalk
- Club soda: Top
- Sliced lime: 1
- Garnish with thai basil sprig: 1
White Rum
Used as the base spirit, giving the cocktail its kick and smooth, sweet undertones. If you skimp on the rum, you'll have a mojito that doesn't quite lift your spirits. Too much, and you'll overshadow the delicate herby notes.
Emma Rose
Fresh Lime Juice
Adds a tangy zest, balancing the sweetness and refreshing the palate. Without it, your mojito might be a touch too sweet. If your life gives you lemons instead, you'll end up with a different twist on the cocktail that's a bit more on the tart side.
Alex Green
Simple Syrup
It's the sweet to your sour, ensuring your drink isn't puckeringly tangy. Leave it out, and you might need to brace for a zingy wake-up call to your taste buds—or add more if you prefer a sweeter sip.
Mary Mitkina
Thai Basil Leaves
These are the heart of the 'Thai' in your mojito. They introduce a unique, peppery flavor that standard basil just can't match. The absence of it would be like visiting Thailand and skipping the Grand Palace—disappointing.
Emma Rose
Mint Leaves
Mint adds a cool, crisp finish, complementing the Thai basil. Forgetting the mint is like forgetting to chill your glass—it still works, but it's not quite right.
Alex Green
Lemongrass
It’s the secret twist; subtle yet distinctive. Lemongrass injects citrusy, earthy depth. If omitted, your mojito would miss out on some complex flavor notes, much like a song missing a beat.
Mary Mitkina
Club Soda
Fizzes up the mix, giving your mojito a lively personality. Without it, the cocktail is just a still life painting, when it should be a fiesta!
Emma Rose
Sliced Lime & Thai Basil Sprig for Garnish
The final flourish that's easy on the eyes and teasing to the nose. Garnishes are like signing your name on a masterpiece—skip it, and something's just not complete.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Thai Basil Mojito Drink
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the Thai basil leaves, mint leaves, and lemongrass.
- Add the white rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda and gently stir.
- Garnish with a slice of lime and a sprig of Thai basil.
Pro Tips
- To release the full flavor of the Thai basil and lemongrass, be sure to muddle them well in the cocktail shaker.
- For a sweeter cocktail, you can increase the amount of simple syrup to taste.
- To make a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum and add more club soda.
Perfect Pairings
Food Pairings
-
Thai Cuisine: The herbal notes of the Thai basil and the freshness of mint complement Thai flavors like green curry, pad Thai, and spicy mango salad.
-
Seafood: Try this mojito with grilled prawns, fish ceviche, or a light scallop salad. The lime juice and lemongrass will enhance the delicate seafood flavors.
-
Light Appetizers: Fresh spring rolls, chicken satay, or tofu skewers are perfect with the cocktail's refreshing taste.
Drink Pairings
-
Coconut Water: For a non-alcoholic refreshment, coconut water maintains the tropical vibe.
-
Iced Green Tea: Sipping on some slightly bitter green tea between sips of the sweet and herbal mojito can cleanse the palate.
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What you could change in Thai Basil Mojito
- If Thai basil is not available, you can use regular basil and add a pinch of ground star anise for a similar flavor profile.
- If lemongrass is not available, you can use a few drops of lemongrass essential oil or a teaspoon of grated lemon zest.
Explore all drinks starting with T here
And of course - twists🍹
Cucumber Thai Basil Mojito
Add slices of cucumber when muddling the herbs for a cool, spa-like twist. This version will be even more refreshing and pairs wonderfully with light summer salads.
Ingredients: Just add 3-4 slices of cucumber to the original recipe.
Spicy Ginger Thai Basil Mojito
A slice or two of ginger can bring a bit of heat to your drink. Perfect if you fancy something a bit more fiery, pairing excellently with bolder flavors like barbecued meats.
Ingredients: Add 1-2 thin slices of fresh ginger in the muddling step.
Lychee Thai Basil Mojito
Lychee syrup can replace the simple syrup for an exotic, fruity note. It's like a tropical vacation in a glass, pairing beautifully with desserts or as a standalone treat.
Ingredients: Substitute simple syrup with 0.5 oz of lychee syrup.
For all twists, follow the original recipe's method while incorporating the new ingredients.
In case you forgot basics how to make Thai Basil 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 syrupAdd your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainInsert 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 stirThe 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 muddleGarnishing 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 garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!
Frequently Asked Questions on Thai Basil Mojito
What is the origin of the Mojito?
The Mojito is a traditional Cuban drink. Its origin dates back to the 16th century, when Sir Francis Drake landed in Havana, the capital of Cuba.
Are there other types of Mojitos besides the Thai Basil Mojito?
Absolutely, there are various spin-offs of the original Cuban Mojito. Some of the popular ones include Coconut Mojito, Berry Mojito, Pineapple Mojito, Watermelon Mojito, and even a Virgin Mojito (non-alcoholic). The options and flavors are endless!
Is the Thai Basil Mojito a suitable drink for vegan or vegetarians?
Yes, the Thai Basil Mojito is suitable for both vegan and vegetarians since it only contains plant-based ingredients and alcohol.
What is the best time to serve Thai Basil Mojitos?
Thai Basil Mojitos can be enjoyed anytime. However, they are especially refreshing on a hot summer day, at beach parties, or during a BBQ dinner.
Can I use other types of rum for this cocktail?
White rum is traditionally used for Mojitos, including the Thai Basil Mojito. However, you can experiment with dark rum or flavored rums for a unique twist. Just note that this could alter the overall taste and color of your cocktail.
More similar recipes to Thai Basil Mojito!
Explore new cocktails you'd love!
Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling has a complex, fruity taste with a balance of sweet, sour, and bitter notes. It is refreshing, tangy, and slightly effervescent, with a hint of herbal undertones.
Sake Martini
The Sake Martini is a delicate, smooth, and slightly floral cocktail with a hint of sweetness. It is light and refreshing, with a subtle hint of umami from the sake.
Lychee Martini
The Lychee Martini has a delicate, sweet, and slightly floral taste with a hint of tartness. The lychee fruit adds a unique and exotic flavor, while the vodka provides a smooth and clean finish.
Three Dots and a Dash
The Three Dots and a Dash cocktail is a delightful combination of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. It has a rich and complex taste, with notes of citrus, honey, and spices. The rum adds a warming, smooth finish to the drink.
Headhunter
The Headhunter cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. It has a strong tropical taste, with hints of citrus and pineapple. The rum adds a warm, smooth finish to the drink.
Inca
The Inca cocktail has a complex and well-balanced taste, featuring sweet, sour, and slightly bitter notes. The fruity flavors from the passion fruit and pineapple are complemented by the warmth of the pisco and the herbal touch of the bitters.
Jalisco High Tea
The Jalisco High Tea cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and herbal flavors. The sweetness of the agave nectar and the tartness of the lime juice create a perfect harmony, while the tequila adds a bold, earthy undertone. The addition of green tea and mint leaves lends a refreshing, aromatic finish to the drink.
Kilted Black Leprechaun
The Kilted Black Leprechaun offers a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors. The combination of Irish whiskey and Scotch whisky creates a robust and complex base, while the blackberry liqueur adds a touch of fruity sweetness. The lemon juice and ginger beer provide a refreshing tang and effervescence, making this cocktail a true sensory experience.
Makgeolli Mimosa
The Makgeolli Mimosa has a slightly sweet, tangy, and fruity taste with a hint of creaminess from the Makgeolli. The orange juice adds a bright citrus flavor, while the Makgeolli provides a subtle earthiness and unique depth.
Daiquiri
The Daiquiri is a refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet cocktail with a hint of citrus. It has a light and crisp taste, making it perfect for warm weather or as an aperitif.
Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea is a complex blend of flavors, combining the sweetness of cola and sour mix with the boldness of multiple spirits. It is a strong, yet surprisingly smooth cocktail with a slightly bitter aftertaste.
Yellow Bird
The Yellow Bird cocktail has a sweet and fruity taste, with a hint of sourness from the lime juice. It is a well-balanced drink that is both refreshing and flavorful. The combination of rum, Galliano, and fruit juices creates a tropical and exotic flavor profile that is perfect for warm weather and beachside sipping.
Mojito
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.
Mint Julep
The Mint Julep has a refreshing, sweet, and slightly minty taste. It is a well-balanced cocktail with a strong bourbon backbone and a cooling, herbal finish.
Grasshopper
The Grasshopper cocktail is sweet, creamy, and refreshing with a hint of mint. The combination of chocolate and mint flavors creates a smooth, velvety texture that is both rich and light.
Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing, slightly spicy, and tangy cocktail with a hint of sweetness. The combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice creates a well-balanced and invigorating flavor profile.
Gimlet
The Gimlet cocktail has a bright, tangy, and slightly sweet taste. The combination of gin and lime juice creates a refreshing and crisp flavor, while the simple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity. The overall taste is clean, sharp, and invigorating.
Tequila Sunrise
The Tequila Sunrise has a sweet and fruity taste, with a hint of sourness from the orange juice and grenadine. The tequila adds a subtle warmth and depth to the flavor, making it a well-balanced and satisfying drink.