Hello National Mojito Day!
There are some holidays that are just too good to pass up. What could be better than sitting at the beach or poolside and throwing back a few cooling, refreshing mojitos? Although they originated in Cuba, these tasty treats are ubiquitous all across the United States, especially in seaside communities. I remember the first time I had one at an ocean front Miami hotel. The flavors just pop. It is a clean, crisp refresher that starts with just 5 simple ingredients: Rum, sugar, mint, Lime, and soda water. Traditionally, white rum is used. But, the beauty of this drink is its adaptability. Feel free to use a spiced rum or add flavors like mango, passion fruit, or fresh berries. But, remember, the basic drink itself is a perfect balance of flavors. Hello National Mojito Day!
And, these go down fast. When properly balanced, you can barely even taste the booze. So, beware! Before long, you’ll go from saying Mojitos to “I like taquitos“… Some people think they are an effeminate drink. But, that is just not the case. What’s more macho than a hefty rum drink. And, the name is fun to pronounce: MO-HEAT-TOE! Just say that a few times. You can’t help but be happy.
So, whip up a pitcher of these babies and prepare to be transported to a tropical paradise no matter where you are. You may even start singing in a different language. Below, we have a recipe for Blackberry mojitos. You can use any fruit you want. Or, just skip the fruit all together. I happen to have blackberries growing wild, so, that is my fruit of choice today. Hello National Mojito Day!
Table of Contents
Salud!
PS: You may also want some food to go along with these. They do sneak up on you. Cuban food is traditional. But, anything with a Latinex feel will work. Hell, even a burger is fine. Try some of these recipes from our Cinco de quatro celebration. Follow the links in the post.
Blackberry Mojito
Ingredients
- 6 to 8 oz Rum (traditionally white. But, feel free to substitute)
- 4 each small to medium limes cut half or into wedges
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup sugar (preferably organic)
- 2 cups Soda water (club soda or sparkling, not tonic)
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
Instructions
- Muddle sugar and mint in a pitcher by pressing down with a muddling stick or wooden spoon. This crushes the mint and blends the flavor into the sugar. Squeeze the limes and toss them in. Continue to muddle. Add the rum and berries and stir. Then add the sparkling water and ice. Give a good stir to mix everything. Then pour into glasses and garnish with more lime wedges and mint.
- For a more dramatic effect dip the rim in mint sugar.