Classic Cocktail
When it comes to refreshing cocktails, nothing says refreshing like the mojito – this Cuban libation reigns supreme. Crisp, cool, and bursting with flavors.
A Splash of History
The mojito traces its roots back to 16th century Cuba. Legend has it that the drink’s precursor, “El Draque,” was named after the infamous English sea captain, Sir Francis Drake. Drake’s crew created a rudimentary version of the mojito using aguardiente (a crude form of rum), sugar, lime, and mint to help combat dysentery and scurvy. Over time, as rum production improved, aguardiente was replaced with rum, and the mojito as we know it was born.
Fun Facts
- Hemingway’s Favorite: The mojito was famed author Ernest Hemingway’s fave. And the only place to get it was at Havana’s La Bodeguita del Medio where he reportedly said, “My mojito in La Bodeguita, my daiquiri in El Floridita.”
- Minty Fresh: The mint used in mojitos is typically spearmint or yerba buena, a variety native to Cuba that gives the drink its signature refreshing taste.
- Global Popularity: The mojito has become one of the most popular cocktails worldwide, known for its simple ingredients and delightful flavor.
The Ultimate Mojito Recipe
Ready to mix up your own mojito? Here’s the recipe for you so you can celebrate World Mojito Day in style:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves
- Soda water
- Ice
- Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
- Muddle: In a glass, muddle the mint leaves with the sugar and lime juice. The goal is to bruise the mint leaves to release their oils, but not to tear them apart.
- Add Rum: Pour in the rum and simple syrup – we prefer syrup over sugar as it’s easier to mix.
- Fill with Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Top with Soda: Top off with soda water and gently stir to combine.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint.
- Enjoy: Sip and savor the refreshing flavors of this classic cocktail.
Conclusion
So channel your inner Papa and chill out with a mojito.
We’d love to hear if you have any riffs on this mojito or if you want to share your favorite rum brand for this cocktail below.
