Mojito is one of the most popular cocktails in the world, if not the most. One of the secrets of its success is that it is very simple to prepare. The ingredients and utensils you need are usually found in most homes. And the procedure itself is quite simple and ends up completely mastering only with a little practice.
But the most important thing is that it is a totally delicious cocktail. Mojito is ideal for friends gatherings, parties and in general for any time when we want to enjoy our free time in the company of a pleasant drink.
Its refreshing qualities make it a great ally during the hot months. It also stands out for its digestive and stimulant benefits. Find out what ingredients you need to get a Cuban mojito and what steps you need to follow to prepare it well. As well as some notes and tricks that will help you perfect it and give it your personal touch. Something, the latter, that over time is attached to all combined, and this is no exception.
Contents
Mojito Ingredients
- 45 ml white rum
- Fresh mint
- 90 ml sparkling water
- White sugar
- Lime
- Crushed ice
How to make mojito step by step
- Add two teaspoons of sugar in a wide mouth and good capacity glass (you can add more later if you find it very bitter when you taste it), 7-8 peppermint leaves and half a lime cut into quarters (discard the tip).
- Smash the ingredients gently with a mortar or some flat utensil. No more than ten strokes. It is not about undoing them, but about releasing and integrating the different aromas and flavors.
- Add the white rum, sparkling water and cover with ice.
- Gently mix all ingredients with a spoon. Use enveloping movements.
- Add more ice. Consider that it protrudes slightly from the edge of the glass to make the presentation more attractive, although it is not indispensable. Also, decorate with a sprig of peppermint and a slice of lime (make a slice to hold on the edge of the glass).
- Now put in a couple of straws… and enjoy your mojito!
Notes, variations and tricks
Alcoholic strength
Do you like your mojito to be strong? In that case, keep the amount of rum and reduce the amount of sparkling water. Or simply increase the milliliters of rum, adding an extra jet to your mojito. But be sure to remove it well so that it integrates correctly.
The alcohol content of mojito varies depending on the type and amount of rum used. The quantities of sparkling water and lime juice also influence the final graduation of this combination. If you use a rum with an alcohol percentage of 40%, the amounts of the above recipe result in approximately 14th grade mojito.
Peppermint or mint?
For aromatic plants, fresh mint can be used if you do not have peppermint (or if you prefer the taste of the first plant above that of the second plant). Both are perfectly valid for mojito.
What is important in this step is to ensure that the peppermint/mint leaves do not break when preparing the mojito. The goal is not to sneak small pieces into your mouth when drinking. Also consider placing the decoration (peppermint and lime) and straws on the same side of the glass. Although it is not indispensable, it is considered that it helps to make the experience more complete, since each sip is accompanied by its aroma.
Do you like it sweeter?
It would be somewhat exaggerated to say that there are as many recipes of mojito as people who prepare it, but it is useful to give us an idea of the numerous small variations that can be carried out in its preparation. One of them is the one related to the amount of sugar. Some people want a sweeter result. In this case, there is no problem in adding more sugar. Another option is to replace sparkling water with soft drinks such as soda or sprite.
Crushed or diced ice?
The original mojito carries ice cubes instead of crushed ice. The two options work equally well, although the cubes fall apart more slowly, a factor to consider in warmer places. If you prefer crushed ice, you can buy it already crushed or do it yourself. Wrap a few ice in a kitchen towel and hit them against a hard surface. By the way, it will help you relieve stress a little.
Whole or squeezed lime?
Half lime can be added whole or squeezed. It should be noted that the first option brings more flavor and aroma due to the skin. The same happens when peppermint or mint is hit with the palm of your hand before adding it to the glass.