The mojito is a classic summer beverage that is truly crisp, refreshing, and simple to put together. It is made from ingredients that most of us have on hand, and can also highlight some of your favourite summer garden growers.
Mojito Recipe
Ingredients
The Core Cocktail
- 2 Oz Captain Morgan White Rum
- 1 Oz Fresh lime juice about 1 medium lime
- 0.75 Oz Simple syrup or honey syrup: equal parts honey and warm water mixed until dissolved
- 6–8 Fresh mint leaves
- Top off with Club soda or sparkling water
- Crushed ice
Optional Garden Twists (Pick One or Mix!)
- 3–4 Fresh culinary lavender buds It adds a gorgeous, calming floral note that pairs beautifully with honey syrup.
- 1 sprig Rosemary Use a sturdy sprig of rosemary as your stir stick and garnish. It releases woody, aromatic oils every time you take a sip.
Method
- Awaken the Herbs: Place your fresh mint leaves (and lavender or basil, if using) into the bottom of a sturdy highball glass.
- Muddle Gently: Pour in the fresh lime juice and simple syrup (or honey syrup). Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently press the leaves a few times.
- Add the Captain: Pour in the 2 oz of Captain Morgan White Rum.
- Ice it Down: Fill the glass about three-quarters full with crushed ice. Stir the mixture thoroughly from the bottom up to distribute the lime, syrup, and rum evenly.
- Bubble and Top: Top off the glass with club soda, then add a little more crushed ice to create a nice mound at the top.
- The Grand Finale (Garnish): Take your final sprig of mint (and your rosemary or lavender) and slap it against the back of your hand before placing it in the glass. This wakes up the aromas right under your nose as you drink.
Notes
Quick Note on Honey vs. Simple Syrup
If you choose the honey route, definitely take the extra 30 seconds to dissolve it in a splash of warm water first (creating a 1:1 honey syrup). Raw honey will instantly freeze up and seize when it hits cold rum and ice, leaving you with a sad, sweet sludge at the bottom of your glass instead of a perfectly balanced cocktail!
