Zesty Mint Bliss: The Ultimate Mojito Experience

The Mojito is a refreshing and iconic cocktail with Cuban origins, known for its combination of fresh mint, zesty lime, and a hint of sweetness. It's a perfect choice for warm summer days or any occasion when you're looking for a cool and invigorating drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz (60 ml) white rum
• 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice (approximately one lime)
• 2 teaspoons white granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) club soda or sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Lime wheel or wedge, for garnish
• Optional: a splash of soda water for added fizz

Instructions:

1. Gather Your Tools: Ensure you have a sturdy highball glass or a similar glass, a jigger for measuring, a muddler, and a long stirring spoon.
2. Prepare the Glass: Begin by placing fresh mint leaves at the bottom of the glass. To release their aromatic oils, gently press and twist the leaves using a muddler. Avoid over-muddling, as it can make the mint bitter.
3. Add Lime Juice: Squeeze the juice of one lime (approximately 1 oz or 30 ml) and pour it over the muddled mint leaves.
4. Sweeten with Sugar: Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of white granulated sugar into the glass. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar. Stir briefly to help dissolve the sugar.
5. Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes, leaving some room at the top for the remaining ingredients.
6. Pour in Rum: Using a jigger, measure 2 oz (60 ml) of white rum and pour it over the ice.
7. Top with Club Soda: Carefully pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) of club soda or sparkling water into the glass. If you like your Mojito extra fizzy, you can add a splash of soda water.
8. Stir Gently: Use a long stirring spoon to gently mix the ingredients together. Be mindful not to disturb the muddled mint leaves at the bottom too much; you want to retain their freshness.
9. Garnish: Place a sprig of fresh mint on top of the drink, and if desired, add a lime wheel or wedge to the rim of the glass for an attractive garnish.
10. Enjoy: Your Mojito is now ready to be enjoyed! Take a sip and relish the vibrant combination of mint, lime, and rum. The Mojito is known for its crisp and revitalizing taste, making it a perfect choice for a hot day or a leisurely evening.

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer it a touch sweeter, stronger, or with more lime. Mojitos are wonderfully versatile and can be customized to your liking. Enjoy responsibly!