Mojito Recipe - from Scratch

How to Make a Mojito from scratch - 10 steps to perfection!

1 - Select a tall highball glass, also know as a collins glass or if you have one speciality Mojito tumbler,

2 -  Twist 6 to 8 or so sprigs of mint leaves and drop them in the glass. Twisting helps to release the natural essential oils, similar to the zest of a lemon twist.

In Havana they use Cuban mint, mentha nemorosa. The mint found at a grocery is usually spearmint, mentha spicata. It is interesting that spearmint is often used to treat headaches by many herbalists. Some enthusiasts planting their own mint gardens opt for apple mint, mentha suaveolens, which is  a close relative of the Cuban mint. In a leaf by leaf comparison they do taste differently. Still the subtlety of mint flavor differences is often lost when mixing the cocktail. Still, if you can, select "yerba buena" (translated to good herb) mint when available. Important tip: be sure to remove the stems. They tend to be bitter and may alter the flavor of your drink.

3 -  Hand squeeze the juice of a sliced lime over the mint leaves. Using your fingers to hand squeeze the lime. Hand squeezing does not disturb the bitter pith. Doing so you will end up with a more authentic drink.

4 -  Drop the rind of the freshly squeezed lime over the mint leaves. This not only helps protect the leaves from being bruised or torn in the process of muddling the acid in the limes helps to release the mint oils from the leaves.

5 -  Lightly muddle to press the flavored oils from the mint leaves and lime rinds. Using a muddle is best. In a pinch you can try using the back of a fork or spoon. Avoid a whisk as the lime and mint can get stuck in the wires. A whisk just doesn't get the job done properly. Be sure not to over muddle the mint. If you do  you can end up with small pieces that could get stuck in your teeth or a green grainy simple syrup. NEVER, EVER  pulverize or destroy the mint leaf. Muddle for around 10 to 15 seconds. You will smell a delightful light minty and limey aroma.

IMPORTANT STEP 6 -- the SWEETENER -- PERHAPS MAKE YOUR OWN SIMPLE SYRUP

6 -  Add about a tablespoon of fine easy dissolving granulated sugar, powered sugar or simple syrup. While the use of plain white sugar is an absolute no–no there is much debate here so you choose what you like best. Mojito purists will insist you use a granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar or simple syrup.

It is claimed using granulated sugar grinds against the lime zest when muddling resulting in a stronger lime taste. Some use "guarapo" in place of the powdered sugar. This is canned sugar cane syrup may be found in the Latin food section of the grocery store sold in 12 ounce cans similar to soft drinks.

To make your own simple syrup heat equal parts of sugar and water in a saucepan until just before boiling. Keep stirring constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved. Be sure to chill or let stand to room temperature before using in your cocktail. You can prepare one cup sugar with one cup water and keep the extra in the fridge for the next rounds of cocktails.

7 - Fill the glass with crushed or shaved ice.

Crushed ice melts faster than cubed ice and the extra area of surface ice will make your drink colder. To avoid brain freeze remember to always take your time when drinking your Mojito — never, ever finish your Mojito in less time than it took you to make it. Next,

8 -  Add 1 1⁄2 to 2 ounces light white or silver rum. Use only white or silver rum. Stay away from gold or dark rum as you want the bite of the lighter rum to balance out the other ingredients.

Mixing a Mojito with an aged rum can muddy the color of the drink. It can also bring some unwelcomed butterscotch, caramel or vanilla flavors to your drink. Although highly unorthodox,  for a fruitful variation, try using flavored rums or vodkas.

9 -  Top with carbonated water and stir to mix. NEVER shake SODA or your Mojito.

10 -  Garnish with a lime wedge and a few springs of mint. For an exotic touch add a piece of sugar cane stick as a stirrer. 

Many Havana hotels have been know to add a dash of orange bitters in order to cut the sweetness. It is up to you how you garnish. After all,  it is your Mojito.

Following this process makes just one incredibly delicious, refreshing murky light green serving. Mix them by the picture or in a large vat like you can get at Bed, Bath and Beyond for a real party recipe. Que Rico!