It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere: Black and Blue Mojitos
Mojito (məˈhiːtəʊ): Mo – He – Toe.
When I think of a good Mojito, I think it can only be made by a bartender deep in Cuba or maybe on the coast of Miami. Never would I think an excellent classic like this could be conjured up in my kitchen. I’m not sure a Mojito is the first choice of many when it comes to bar beverages, but it is one of those drinks that once you have it, it is something you crave at certain times. It is distinguishable and unique. Toss in some blackberries and blueberries and it becomes unforgettable.
Mise en place
One of the more refreshing drinks you will come across, the mojito is one of a kind. Don’t be intimidated by the fact that the use of a pestle would come in handy. If you don’t have one, just use the back of a wooden spoon.
Yes, you can eat the mint. Enjoy.
Kitchen Notes:
- Don’t be afraid to mix in other fruits, it would work wonderfully.
- Traditional mojitos are made grinding sugar into the other ingredients. I find that using simple syrup is easier and give a smoother flavor.
- Light rum is preferred but a darker rum will work well.
A beautiful mojito is kicked up using fresh summer berries.
Ingredients
- 10 blackberries, plus a couple for garnish
- 20 blueberries, plus a couple for garnish
- 10 mint leaves, plus 2 sprigs for garnish
- juice of one lime
- 3 ounces simple syrup*
- 3 ounces rum (light or dark works)
- Crushed ice
- Soda water
Directions
- Mix 1 cup sugar with 1 cup water until sugar dissolves. Can be heated on the stovetop, but wait until cooled to use in a recipe.
- Place an equal amount of berries and mint into 2 rocks or old-fashioned glasses. Squeeze juice of 1/2 the lime into each glass and muddle with the 1.5 ounces simple syrup. Add 1.5 ounces rum to each glass, then fill with the crushed ice. Top with a splash of soda water, then stir gently.
- Garnish with the mint sprig and berries.
Notes
Don't be afraid to mix in other fruits, it would work wonderfully.
Traditional mojitos are made grinding sugar into the other ingredients. I find that using simple syrup is easier and give a smoother flavor.
Light rum is preferred but a darker rum will work well.
After the craziness of the past couple of days, I think I need to make one (or three) of these.
After the craziness of the past couple of days, I think I need to make one (or three) of these.