Mojitos

[Ellen]

We are trying ours with the Bacardi Limon this evening....

The Miami Mojito (Mojito with Simple Syrup)

Somewhere between guarapo and granulated sugar, lies simple syrup.   Simple syrup is essentially “sugar water” made by dissolving sugar in boiling water.  Some people refer to it as mojito simple syrup, but simple syrup has many uses in cocktail making.   Simple syrup yields more volume than sugar alone, yet it is lighter than the guarapo-based mojito.  Simple syrup also makes the mojito with the smoothest texture, as the sugar particles have already been dissolved before assembling the mojito.   Simple syrup is very sweet – so for those seeking very sweet drinks, this is a good choice for making the mojito.   

 

½ lime, quartered

5-6 fresh mint leaves
Crushed Ice
2 ounces White/light rum

1 ounce simple syrup*

2 drops bitters

3 ounces Club Soda

 

* Simple Sugar Syrup:

1 cup water

1 cup sugar

 

Bring water and sugar to a low boil and cook for 2-3 minutes until sugar dissolves.  Water will appear slightly cloudy, but will become clear as it cools.  Cool to room temperature.   Store in the refrigerator in a squeeze bottle or airtight container.   If properly sealed, the syrup will keep up to 2 weeks.  One batch will make about 12 mojitos.

 

Muddle lime and mint in the bottom of a tall glass. Add light rum, simple syrup, and bitters. Fill the glass to the top with ice. Top with club soda.   Cover the glass with a shaker tin or transfer the mixture to a shaker and shake for 5-6 seconds.   Garnish with lime wedge, mint sprig, and sugar cane swizzle stick.

[sprout83]

This looks really interesting Ellen. I have never had this before. I'm glad you posted this recipe, I will have to try this.

[Ellen]

You know, I do NOT like rum at all and so I was a little hesitant, but these were really good. Good way to use extra mint and a very refreshing drink.

[sprout83]

Yeah me too...I'm not too fond of rum, so that's good to hear.

[Jen in Ft Worth]

Can you make simple syrup with Splenda?  I don't have any sugar in the house.

[peznin]

We buy light agave nectar (usually in the "natural" food section of the supermarket) and use that in mojitos instead of simple syrup. Just as tasty, already in liquid form, and ready to go!

[Kaedith]

Yes you can make simple syrup with Splenda the same way.  Equal parts water:splenda.  Howeever I find that splenda tastes sweeter so I would use say 1 C water: 3/4C Splenda.  I've made simple syrup like this many times for sugar free sauces like strawberry and blueberry.  Also for my dad who has to watch his sugar I've made Sweet and sour mix with splenda.

[Jen in Ft Worth]

Oh fabulous!  Hugs to you, Julie, for that info!  My rum and mint thank you!  

[Jen in Ft Worth]

Yes you can make simple syrup with Splenda the same way.  Equal parts water:splenda.  Howeever I find that splenda tastes sweeter so I would use say 1 C water: 3/4C Splenda.  I've made simple syrup like this many times for sugar free sauces like strawberry and blueberry.  Also for my dad who has to watch his sugar I've made Sweet and sour mix with splenda.

Fabulous, Kaedith!  Thank you!  Great info!