How To Make A Classic Mint Mojito
You can choose how much sugar to add depending on how sweet you like your cocktails. Using one teaspoon will make a mojito that is fairly tart, two teaspoons make a more traditionally sweet mojito. A classic mint mojito is surprisingly simple to make in just a few easy steps:
Full recipe instructions are in the recipe card below.
Tip: Making a mojito this way is wonderfully easy-going, but it does make a casual, slightly messy cocktail. For a prettier drink, strain the lime juice after you muddle it into a new glass before adding the rum and soda it’s what we did for the photos.
What Makes This Mojito Recipe So Great
- Its super simple to make! Just combine the drink ingredients together, muddle the mint, shake, and pour over ice!
- Its so light and refreshing a great drink for a warm day.
- Its really versatile add more or less sugar, mint, or rum to customize it to your liking!
Even though this mojito recipe is so simple, people often have loads of questions. Here are some of the more common ones.
How Do I Make A Mojito With Mint
To make a classic Mojito with mint leaves, all you need to do is add a lime wedge to your glass and crush some more lime and mint leaves with a muddler, extracting the juices.
Then, fill the glass with ice, pour the rum over the ice, and fill the rest of the glass with soda water. Garnish with more mint and lime if needed.
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The Mojito: A Taste Of Havana
There are many origin stories associated with the mojito , but one thing is clearit was popularized by novelist Ernest Hemingway, who first enjoyed it in the 1950s at a favorite Havana bar. The cocktails fame spread, and by 2002, even super-spy James Bond tossed one back in the film Die Another Day.
A classic mojito embodies the flavor of the Caribbean in a fizzy mix of white rum, lime juice, mint, sugar, and club soda or sparkling water. Ice cubes keep the drink cold. Nonalcoholic versions omit the rum.
Until early in the 21st century, mixologists looking for mint to flavor mojitos often used spearmint , which has a familiar, piquant mint flavor. Some drink makers also used peppermint , but the mint flavor in peppermint leaves is much stronger and spicier than that of spearmint.
Around 2006, Cuban mint , native to the island, began making appearances in the United States, and bartenders started using this original mojito mint in the rum drinks. Since that time, Cuban mint has become more readily available, especially for those who are willing to grow their own.
Mint connoisseurs say that Cuban mint has a somewhat milder flavor than spearmint, along with citrus notes that marry well with the lime juice in the cocktail.
What Is A Mojito
The classic mint mojito is a popular rum drink that originates from Cuba. It’s a simple mixed drink made with traditional Cuban ingredients: lime, mint, sugar, white rum, and soda. It’s believed it was originally made as a medicinal drink to ward off illness. This summertime cocktail has become a worldwide favorite with countless delicious variations don’t miss our tips below to put your own spin on this classic cocktail!
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Are Mojitos Made With Spearmint Or Peppermint
The two most common mint varieties for Mojitos are peppermint and spearmint. Despite being 2 varieties of the same plant, these mint types are very different, so its important to consider this before you buy. If you prefer sweeter, milder flavors, we would recommend choosing spearmint.
Which mint is best for cocktails?
Spearmint. The classic and most common variety used in cocktails is, of course, spearmint . Its the standard for a reasonthe light, bright sweetness both mellows and elevates a spirit, and can even temper overly-sugary recipes.
What type of mint is sold in supermarkets?
Spearmint and peppermint are the two most common and widely available of the many mint species. Of the two, spearmint is the one almost always sold in grocery stores and markets.
Is mojito mint and peppermint the same?
Here we see Vietnamese mint, Spearmint, Mojito mint, and Peppermint. These are all different species in the Mentha genus . Plants in the this genus have opposite leaves and square stems.
What is spearmint vs mint?
Menthol: Both spearmint and peppermint contain menthol, but spearmint has 0.5 percent menthol while peppermint has forty percent menthol, giving peppermint its signature numbing flavor. Taste: Spearmint has a subtler, lighter flavor, vaguely sweet flavor.
Can you use apple mint for mojitos?
Can you grow mojito mint indoors?
What is the best tasting mint?
What are the ingredients in a mint mojito?
Should you muddle the mint in a mojito?
What Is Yerba Buena Good For
Yerba Buena has long been used to provide relief for abdominal pain, indigestion, loss of appetite, passage of gas, diarrhea and stomach ache. It is known to relax the digestive tract muscles. Bad breath. Yerba Buena has this minty scent and flavour that can improve the foul odour emanating from the mouth.
Is Yerba Buena invasive?
It is also clay, sand, and shade tolerant, so whether in a hanging pot, for ground cover, or trailing a shaded wall, this plant is not invasive and can be easily maintained. Growing dimensions can be up to six feet outwards and two inches high. Yerba buenas scent is also a deer deterrent.
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What Is The Best Mint For Mojito
There are many varieties mints to choose from: spearmint, chocolate mint, apple mint, orange mint, ginger mint, pineapple mint, peppermint.
Mojito has gained popularity due to its freshness and pleasant flavor. It is the mint that gives the mojito that magical note of coolness. But not every herb can be suitable for such a cocktail.
Obviously, spearmint is chosen for mojito since it contains the cool menthol. It gives a feeling of freshness. All other types of mint will not provide the mojitos the same taste. Despite this, most people use other mints.
Kenter Canyon Farms Organic Mint
The second fresh mint variety we would recommend adding to your Mojito is the Kenter Canyon Farms Organic Mint.
Because this mint is fresh as opposed to dried, it has a very satisfying, refreshing flavor and quality.
The flavor from this mint effortlessly infuses throughout the beverage, combining the flavors of the other ingredients so well that the end result will taste professionally made! We were so impressed when we tried it.
As well as being fresh, the Kenter Canyon Farms mint is organic. Its grown on a farm, not cultivated in a factory, and it hasnt been exposed to any pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, or dangerous substances such as sewage sludge.
Because the Kenter Canyon Farms mint leaves are grown in the U.S.A., you dont need to worry about this mint varietys sustainability.
However, be aware that this mint produce only comes in a ¾-ounce pack, meaning that one pack probably wont be enough if youre making Mojitos for a large party. For a few afternoons of relaxation in the garden, however, its a good size.
Pros
- Grown in the U.S.A. Sustainable
Cons
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Homegrown Mints For Cooling Libations: Mojitos And Juleps
Parched summer palates demand refreshments that are icy cold, wet, and flavorful. For sophisticated adult palates, the mojito, a classic Cuban cocktail, and the julep, beloved in the American South, check all the right summer boxes. Mint, muddled or crushed with sugar prior to the addition of liquid ingredients, adds distinctive flavor notes to these drinks.
But, which mint is best for an authentic mojito or traditional julep? The Mentha genus is large and full of popular varieties and hybrids. That kind of abundance is a blessing for cooks and cocktail makers, but it can also be daunting. The mints below are the best choices for these fabled libations.
Whats The Difference Between Yerba Buena And Mojito Mint
Yerba Buena and Mojito Mint are used interchangeably in the popular cocktail, particularly in Havanna, because they have a similar flavor. Theyre both in the same family by the way.
Where did the Cuban mint Mojito come from?
Mojito Mint, Mentha x villosa, was brought to North America from Cuba about 15 years ago. Up until 2005 or 2006 this mint was rare and hard to get outside of Cuba. So the first secret to making your mojitos as the Cubans do is to use aromatic bitters!
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What Are The Benefits Of Mint Leaf
Mint leaves are believed to have several health benefits. Mint helps to cope with allergies. Mint plants contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents.
Mint is an indispensable remedy for colds. It contains menthol, which helps to break up phlegm and mucus. It also has a cooling effect and can help relieve sore throat.
Mint is a soothing herb used during stomach upset, bloating, and any discomfort.
Mint leaves are also used in diets to enhance the taste of products in various recipes. It has no calories and thus is not an enemy for losing weight. Nevertheless, there are various negative qualities of this herb.
Best Mint For Mojito Does Taste Matter
It is known for sure that Mojito was a favorite cocktail of Ernest Hamenguya. It is worth noting that the history of the emergence of such a wonderful cocktail isnt so rosy.
The idea of mixing white rum and mint came to the mind of English pirates, and they did it to kill the bad taste of rum of poor quality. This happened back in the XVI century. Then the idea of mixing ingredients migrated to local bars in ports. And from there, it has already spread to other bars.
The recipe for this cocktail appeared on the territory of the capital of Cuba Havana. It was in this place that Ernest first tasted this excellent, refreshing, and fragrant beverage. Traditionally, the cocktail includes 6 ingredients: white rum, sparkling water, mint, lime, sugar, and ice. But the drink can be prepared without alcohol.
The main part is a mint! Mint, in general, has some advantages and disadvantages. And its time to consider them.
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Can I Freeze Mint Leaves
Mint is the leading component in the preparation of mojito. However, people are wondering: how to have this ingredient on hand all year round? The answer is quite simple: mint leaves can be frozen without losing the color and quality of the product. This process will not take much time and effort.
TIP:Keep mint in a container outside the garden bed if you grow it on your own
Freezing mint in ice cubes is one of the most popular and convenient ways to preserve the plant. Thanks to this option, the leaves will be both fresh and recently plucked.
In each hole of the ice molds, you should put from 3-4 mint leaves , pour water, and put it in the freezer. After the water turns into ice, you can pull out the cubes. Great! The main ingredient for a mojito is ready! Mint has not darkened it has retained its color and aroma.
Fresh Brand Organic Mint
Our first choice of mint for Mojitos is the Organic Mint variety from the brand Fresh.
Freshs Organic Mint is good for you, the environment, and crucially in this context, your favorite Mojito recipe!
The mint that comes in this package is fresh, and the quality and freshness of the mint come through in the flavor. The leaves produce a potent flavor without being overpowering.
Freshs mint is USDA-certified organic, which means that it has been grown without the use of GMOs, pesticides, or synthetic fertilizers. This certification means you can also rest easy knowing that your mint has not been irradiated or put into contact with any sewage.
Additionally, the Fresh Brand Organic Mint is climate pledge friendly, meaning that it was produced in a way that is sustainable for the environment, the community, and the economy.
This mint comes in a 3-ounce pack. The average Mojito contains between 5 and 10 mint leaves, so this 3-ounce container will provide you with days worth of delicious cocktails for multiple people!
Unfortunately, the downside to fresh mint leaves is that they are perishable, so make sure you keep this mint refrigerated and consume it before its use-by date.
Pros
- Climate pledge friendly Sustainably produced
Cons
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Choosing The Right Mint For Your Cocktails
If most cocktail recipes are to be believed, every fruit, vegetable, and herb in the world has exactly one variety. That would certainly simplify the process of shopping for ingredients, but we should probably be grateful that its not the case. The diversity of plant cultivars available today is one of the largest contributors to creativity and innovation in the world of craft cocktails, and we want to make sure you all know whats really out there so you can get experimenting. With the Kentucky Derby right around the corner, we thought wed kick things off by exploring the ins and outs of mint to spice up your .
Planting Mojito Mint: In The Bed And In The Pot
Hardy mojito mint thrives well both directly in the herb bed and in pots. Like most special mint varieties, it is best to buy young Mojito mint from a garden retailer who knows mint well. Before you plant the young plant, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Location: A bright and sunny location is important for the mojito mint to thrive and develop its aromatic flavor. However, you should protect it from blazing sun, especially at midday. In addition, the mint should be in a place with good air circulation, so that its leaves dry quickly after rain or after watering.
- Soil: Mojito mint grows best in loose and well-drained soil. A high humus content in the soil will also ensure that the plant gets enough nutrients. If you keep mojito mint in a pot, it is best to use potting soil or vegetable soil as a planting medium. Also place a drainage layer of gravel or clay shards at the bottom of the pot to help water drain away.
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Spices Village Dried Mint Leaves
If youre looking for other dried mint options to add to your Mojitos, we also recommend this Spices Village Dried Mint Leaves.
Spices Village uses spearmint to make its dried mint leaves. Spearmint is a popular choice for Mojitos because it has a distinctly sweet flavor compared to some other mint varieties, which blends beautifully with white rum and lime.
Because these spearmint leaves have been dried, there are also other benefits. For one thing, you get to enjoy an extended shelf life that limits the number of trips to the store youll need to make before future cocktail-making sessions.
In terms of flavor, theres another distinct advantage to these dried spearmint leaves. Although mint is a key ingredient of the traditional Mojito, not everybody enjoys this herbs potent flavor.
Spearmint, unlike peppermint, is already sweet and more palatable to those who dont usually favor this kind of flavor.
Drying out the leaves makes the flavor even milder, so it shouldnt be offputting to anyone.This mint has been grown without any GMOs, so you can trust in the natural nature of this herb.
Plus, it comes in a resealable package, which helps to extend its shelf life even further than the drying process already does.
Like our previous dried mint product, however, the Spices Village mint is grown in Turkey.
Pros
- Resealable package Long shelf life
Cons
What Is Sweet Mint Good For
Sweet or mojito mint can normalize the water-salt balance, remove puffiness under the eyes, removing excess fluid from the body, improve the digestive processes. Due to the absence of a menthol component and a sweet aroma. Cooks love it for making craft cocktails, lemonades, sauces, salads, desserts and even mint oil.
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What Type Of Mint Is In A Mojito
So what makes a mojito so special? The key ingredient is mint, which not only gives the mojito its refreshing flavor, but also its bright green color. There are over 600 varieties of mint, but the two most common types used in mojitos are spearmint and peppermint. Spearmint is more mild, with a sweetness to it, while peppermint is more strong and has a cooling sensation. It’s certainly a thing of personal preference, but when we’re making a mojito we use spearmint.
What Kind Of Mint Is Used In A Mojito
SpearmintSpearmint. Spearmint is most commonly used in cooking for many recipes, including lamb, vegetables, and of course, mint juleps and mojitos.
Are mint and Yerba Buena the same thing?
It is said that the proper mint to make mojitos is called yerba buena. The name is most commonly used to refer to spearmint , but it is also used to refer to a relative of mint, Satureja douglasii. The latter is a trailing plant with mint-scented leaves.
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What Is The Difference Between Peppermint And Mint
Peppermint is the most popular variety of mint, and it is known to both adults and children. This is the same common mint that can be found in flower gardens and vegetable gardens. In the wild, it does not occur. Its main difference is a pronounced aroma. Moreover, it is very difficult to confuse this type with others.
To verify this statement, it is enough to rub a peppermint leaf in your hands, and you can immediately feel the characteristic menthol aroma. It can never be confused with other species. Moreover, sometimes people cant understand what is the best variant of leaves can be chosen for a Mojito or other mint cocktails like Mint Julep.