I decided to try making this drink shortly after I planted mint in my “herb garden” (and, I must add, before I found out the Mojito’s were the “in” drink for the summer). I was excited to use my new crop, not to mention trying the method of muddling. Depending on who you talk to, you need a special tool (appropriately named, a muddler) to perform the task of muddling, but I find a wooden spoon works perfectly well, not to mention you can use a wooden spoon for so many other tasks. (AB would be proud…)
Muddling is basically just a specific form of mixing. In this recipe you use the abrasiveness of the sugar and the spoon to crush the mint leaves and extract as much of the oils as possible (I think the acidity of the lime juice helps to break down the leaves, as well…). Place the mint leaves, sugar, and lime juice in the bottom of a pitcher and crush the leaves into the sugar with a wooden spoon (or muddler, if you want to spend the money on a single purpose tool).
It is a very refreshing drink, perfect for summertime. Hope you enjoy!
Muddle:
1/3 C sugar
1/2 C mint, roughly chopped
1/2 C lime juice
Add:
1C white rum and stir to combine
Strain into glasses, top with:
Crushed ice
Club soda
Garnish with:
fresh mint sprigs
lime slices
I can personally vouch for this recipe. Perfect for the dog days. For more perspective, history and another Mojito recipe, checkout http://www.theartofdrink.com/blog/2006/07/mojitos_cuban_bartender.php
Every now & then I like to try a “professionally made” Mojito to compare it to my own and see how I can improve. Matt & I went out for cocktails before a movie the other night (at Mitchell’s Seafood in the Westshore Mall), and I gotta tell ya’ - my Mojito would beat theirs any day of the week! The bartender made it with all the necessary ingredients, but there seemed to be more seltzer than lime or mint. What I love about the Mojito’s I make, is how it’s almost like a minty lime-aid (with a kick!), and not just flavored seltzer water. Definitely try this recipe - and remember to use the seltzer to top off the drink, not drown it!