A Mojito is like summer in a glass—cool, crisp, and bursting with mint and lime. It’s the kind of drink that instantly lifts your mood, whether you’re relaxing on the patio or hosting friends on a warm evening. I’ve made this drink countless times, and each time it reminds me why it’s a favorite. Let’s walk through how to make a Mojito that’s refreshing, balanced, and totally satisfying.
Korean Mojito
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5–10 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 10 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
– 2 teaspoons sugar (or 1 teaspoon honey/agave for a lighter version)
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
– 2 oz (60 ml) white rum
– Crushed ice (enough to fill the glass)
– Soda water, to top up
– Lime wedge, for garnish (optional)
Method
- Place the mint leaves and sugar in the bottom of your glass. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press the mint—just enough to release the oils. Don’t mash it to bits; bruising is the goal, not shredding.
- Pour in the lime juice and give it a little stir to help the sugar dissolve.
- Fill the glass almost to the top with crushed ice. (Crushed ice helps keep the drink cold and lets the flavors mix evenly.)
- Add the white rum and stir gently from the bottom up to lift the mint and mix everything well.
- Top off with soda water—just enough to fill the glass—and give it one last gentle stir.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a lime wedge, if you like. Give the mint a light slap between your palms before adding—it wakes up the aroma.
Tips for the Best Mojito
- Use fresh lime juice. Bottled juice can taste flat and overly acidic. Fresh is always worth the extra squeeze.
- Don’t over-muddle. If the mint gets torn up, it can turn bitter and make your drink taste grassy.
- Crushed ice keeps things cold without watering it down too quickly. If you only have cubed, give it a quick bash in a clean kitchen towel with a rolling pin.
- Use a light hand with soda water. You want fizz, not a watered-down drink. Start with a splash and add more if needed.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights. It’s refreshing without being too sweet, and it always feels like a treat—even when it’s just me and a good book on the porch.
Make-Ahead Notes
– You can squeeze the lime juice ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
– For parties, prep a mint-sugar-lime base in a pitcher. Just add rum, ice, and soda water when ready to serve.
Storage
Mojitos are best made fresh. If you need to store leftovers (rare, but it happens!), strain out the mint and store the liquid in the fridge for up to a day. Add fresh mint and soda water when serving.
Recipe Variations
Strawberry Mojito
– Add 2–3 sliced strawberries when muddling the mint and sugar.
– You’ll get a fruity, slightly pink Mojito with a subtle berry twist.
Coconut Mojito
– Swap white rum for coconut rum.
– Garnish with toasted coconut for a tropical vibe.
Spicy Mojito
– Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño with the mint.
– Adds a gentle kick that pairs beautifully with the cool mint.
Nojito (Non-Alcoholic Mojito)
– Just skip the rum and add extra soda water.
– Still minty, still fizzy, still totally refreshing.
Substitutions & Customizations
– Sugar: Honey or agave syrup works well and dissolves faster.
– Mint: Try basil for a slightly peppery twist or a mix of herbs.
– Rum: Flavored rums like mango or pineapple can give your Mojito a fun new personality.
– Lime: In a pinch, you can use lemon, but lime is classic for a reason.
What to Serve with a Mojito
A good Mojito pairs well with fresh, vibrant foods. Here are a few ideas:
Grilled Chicken
Lime and mint cut through the smokiness and make each bite feel lighter.
Spicy Tacos
The cooling effect of the mint balances out bold spices like chili or cumin.
Fruit Salad
Especially one with melon or pineapple. The sweet and tangy combo is a natural match.
Common Questions
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of guests. Mix the lime juice, sugar, mint, and rum in a pitcher. Add ice and soda water just before serving to keep it fizzy.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
You can, but fresh lime juice makes a world of difference. If you’re short on time, squeeze a bunch of limes ahead and store the juice in the fridge.
What if I don’t have a muddler?
No worries—use the back of a wooden spoon or a small rolling pin. You just want to bruise the mint, not pulverize it.
How do I make it less sweet?
Cut back on the sugar or use more lime juice to brighten things up. You can also add more soda water to lighten the sweetness.
Can I use other herbs?
Definitely. Basil gives it a garden-fresh flavor. Cilantro or thyme adds a savory note—great with grilled dishes.
Final Thoughts
The beauty of the Mojito is in its simplicity. Fresh ingredients, a gentle touch, and a little care go a long way. Whether you’re mixing one for yourself or making a pitcher for friends, it’s a drink that brings people together. Keep your mint fresh, your lime juicy, and your rum generous—and you’ll always have a reason to raise a glass. Cheers!
