If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s refreshing, aromatic, and just a little unexpected, the Paan Mojito might be your new favorite. It takes everything you love about a classic Mojito—minty brightness, zesty lime, and that fizzy finish—and adds the unique twist of paan leaves. These fragrant betel leaves bring a slightly sweet, herbal flavor that makes each sip feel special.
Paan Mojito
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a little tip: go easy when muddling the leaves—you want to release their oils, not tear them to bits. It’s perfect for warm evenings when you want something light and cooling, but still full of flavor.
Ingredients
Serves: 1
Prep time: 5 minutes
Glass: Highball or old-fashioned
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- 2 fresh paan (betel) leaves — remove the stems and rinse well
- 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice — about half a lime
- 2 tsp simple syrup — or adjust to taste
- 2 oz (60 ml) white rum
- Soda water — to top up
- Ice cubes — enough to fill ¾ of your glass
What You’ll Need
- Muddler or the back of a wooden spoon
- Measuring jigger or small shot glass
- Highball glass or old-fashioned glass
- Bar spoon or long-handled spoon for stirring
Method
- Add the mint leaves and paan leaves to the bottom of your glass. Pour in the lime juice and simple syrup.
- Gently muddle the leaves with a muddler. Press just enough to release the oils—don’t shred them, or the drink may taste bitter.
- Fill the glass about ¾ full with ice cubes.
- Pour in the white rum.
- Top up with soda water and stir gently to combine everything.
- Garnish with a fresh paan leaf and a slice of lime. Serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh lime juice — it makes a big difference in brightness and flavor.
- Adjust sweetness — paan leaves can be naturally sweet, so taste before adding extra syrup.
- Don’t over-muddle — bruising the mint and paan leaves too much can make the drink taste grassy or bitter.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can prep a pitcher of Paan Mojito mix (minus the soda water and ice) ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, just pour over ice and top with soda water. This works great for parties or backyard get-togethers.
Substitutions & Variations
- No white rum? Try dark rum for a richer flavor, or skip it entirely for a mocktail.
- Out of sugar syrup? Use honey or agave nectar — just dissolve it well.
- No paan leaves? You can still make a great Mojito with just mint and lime — or try basil for a fun herbal twist.
Fun Variations to Try
Spicy Paan Mojito
Add a thin slice of jalapeño when muddling for a subtle heat that plays well with the mint and lime.
Peach Paan Mojito
Mix in 2 oz (60 ml) of peach purée for a fruity, juicy layer that pairs beautifully with the herbal paan.
Virgin Paan Mojito
Skip the rum and use a splash more soda water. Still refreshing, still delicious.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. I love how the mint, lime, and paan work together — it’s cooling, aromatic, and just a little bit unexpected.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Paan Mojito with:
- Spicy grilled chicken — the coolness of the drink balances out the heat perfectly.
- A citrusy seafood platter — shrimp, calamari, or grilled fish with lime and herbs work beautifully.
- Fresh fruit salad — especially melons, pineapple, or mango. Light, sweet, and refreshing.
Storage
If you have leftovers (which rarely happens!), strain the cocktail into a clean container, cover, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add fresh soda water and ice before serving again.
Common Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Yes, but fresh lime juice gives a much brighter, cleaner flavor. If you can, squeeze it fresh.
Where can I find paan leaves?
Check your local South Asian grocery store or market. Look for deep green, unblemished leaves — the fresher, the better.
Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely. Mix everything except the soda water and ice in a pitcher. When it’s time to serve, pour over ice and top with soda water to keep it bubbly.
How do I make it more refreshing for summer?
Try muddling in a few cucumber slices with the mint and lime. It adds a crisp, cooling note that’s perfect for hot days.
Why It Works
The paan leaf adds a gentle sweetness and earthy aroma that makes the Paan Mojito stand out. Combined with the brightness of lime and the cooling mint, it creates a layered drink that’s not just refreshing, but memorable. The soda water lifts everything with a fizzy finish, and the rum ties it all together.
Whether you’re hosting friends, winding down after work, or just want to try something a little different, the Paan Mojito is a crowd-pleaser with a twist.
