The 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 easy to prepare. The ingredients and utensils you need are often found in most homes. And the procedure itself is quite simple, and you end up mastering it completely with just a little practice.
But the most important thing is that it is a totally delicious cocktail. The mojito is ideal for gatherings of friends, parties and in general for any time we want to enjoy our free time in the company of a nice drink.
Its refreshing qualities make it a great ally during the hot months. It also stands out for its digestive and stimulating benefits. Find out what ingredients you need to get a Cuban mojito and what steps you have 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 linked to all the combined, and this is no exception.
Mojito ingredients
- 45 ml white rum
- Fresh peppermint
- 90 ml of sparkling water
- White sugar
- Lima
- Crushed ice
How to make the mojito step by step
- In a wide-mouthed glass with a good capacity, add two teaspoons of sugar (you can add more later if you find it very bitter when tasting it), 7-8 mint leaves and half a lime cut into quarters (discard the tip).
- Crush the ingredients gently with a mortar or a 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 the ingredients with a spoon. Use wraparound 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 essential. Also, decorate with a sprig of mint and a slice of lime (make a slit so that it stays on the edge of the glass).
- Now put a couple of straws ... and enjoy your mojito!
Notes, variations, and tricks
Alcohol content
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 splash to your mojito. But make sure you stir it well so it integrates properly.
The alcoholic strength of the mojito varies depending on the type and amount of rum used. The amounts of sparkling water and lime juice also influence the final alcohol content of this combination. If you use a rum with an alcohol percentage of 40%, the amounts in the above recipe will result in a mojito with a 14º degree, approximately.
Peppermint or mint?
With regard to aromatic plants, you can use fresh mint if you don't have peppermint (or if you prefer the flavor of the first plant over the second). Both are perfectly valid for the mojito.
What is important in this step is make sure the spearmint / mint leaves do not break when making the mojito. The goal is that small pieces do not get into your mouth when you drink. Also, consider placing the decorations (spearmint / mint and lime) and straws on the same side of the glass. Although it is not essential, it is considered that it helps the experience to be more complete, since each sip is accompanied by its aroma.
Do you like it sweeter?
It would be an exaggeration to say that there are as many mojito recipes as there are people who prepare it, but it is useful to get an idea of the many small variations that can be carried out in its preparation. One of them is 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 substitute sparkling water for soft drinks such as soda or sprite..
Crushed or diced ice?
The original mojito has ice cubes instead of crushed ice. Both options work just as wellAlthough the cubes melt more slowly, a factor to consider in warmer places. If you prefer crushed ice, you can buy it already crushed or make it yourself. Wrap a few ice cubes in a tea towel and tap them against a hard surface. By the way, it will help you relieve a bit of stress.
Whole or squeezed lime?
The half lime can be added whole or squeezed. It should be noted that the first option provides more flavor and aroma due to the skin. The same happens when peppermint or mint is tapped with the palm of the hand before adding it to the glass.