The Mojito is a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for warm weather sipping. It transports the drinker to sunny beaches or, as is the case right now, the UK’s streets during the spring!
The Mojito has a fascinating and contested origin story that can be traced back as far as 16th century Cuba. In one story, the Mojito is said to have evolved from a traditional Cuban drink called “El Draque,” named after Sir Francis Drake, the famous English explorer.
The original version of the Mojito was a crude mix of cane spirit, lime, sugar, and mint. One popular story suggests that the Mojito was initially created as a medicinal drink, used to ward off scurvy and other illnesses and diseases amongst locals.
Another theory is that African slaves working in the Cuban sugarcane fields invented the Mojito. They would have had access to the ingredients and likely developed the drink as a way to make harsh rum more palatable.
Over time, it evolved into the more refined cocktail we know today. The modern Mojito gained popularity in the 20th century during the Prohibition era when many Americans travelled to Cuba to enjoy alcohol legally. Its rise in popularity was also fuelled by the famous writer Ernest Hemingway, who was known to enjoy the drink at the historic La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana.
Here’s how to make this timeless classic:
- In a glass, muddle together 6-8 fresh mint leaves with 30 ml (1 oz) of fresh lime juice, gently pressing the leaves to release their flavour.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in 60 ml (2 oz) of white rum and 15 ml (0.5 oz) of simple syrup.
- Stir well to combine the ingredients.
- Top up the glass with soda water.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime wedge.
