How to make a good Mojito?
The most essential ingredient of a good Mojito apart from the rum is the mint. I have tried to source the Cuban mint; unfortunately, I have not been able to get hold of it. Instead of using the far too strong spearmint I suggest using greek mint for the perfect Cuban Mojioto
Although some recipes tell you to use powdered sugar, I wouldn’t advise it. This is far too sweet and having watched and chatted to many bartenders, it is better to go for ordinary sugar. The original recipe of Mojito is with lime juice, but the Cubans have moved on and now use lemon juice these days. It gives you a far milder taste. In the end, you want to taste the rum and a hint of the other ingredients.
The real knack is to crush the mint leaves. So if you prefer the stirred version, you have to grind (or batter) the leaves before you add it to the glass.
I almost forgot! There are 2 ways to prepare a Mojito; stirred or stamped. Just like Martinis, which I prefer to be stirred and not shaken, I like my Mojitos to be ‘stamped’ and not stirred. Of course, it’s your call…
My top three Cuban recipes…
A big thank you to all those great guys, who advised me on the various recipes from Havana to the southern coast of Cuba.
Classic Mojito
- 1 highball glass
- juice of 1 lemon
- 2 teaspoons of sugar
- 1 measure of rum ( or more if like me you like a kick)
- Handful of mint
- 4 ice cubes
- Sparkling mineral water
Put lemon juice, sugar and mint in a glass. Stamp or stir it till the sugar has dissolved. Add the ice fill up with the sparkling mineral water till half full. Stir for 2 minutes. Add the rum. Stir again. If the glass is not entirely filled to the brim, then top it up with more sparkling water.
The quick Mojito
If you want a quick fix after a hectic day. Just put the lemon juice in a glass. Crush the mint leaves, add the ice and add lemonade. Stir for 1 minute and then add the rum. Stir again. If the glass is not full, add more lemonade. Definitely your fix within seconds…
The Mojito with a kick
My favourite one; I like a bit of a kick, so I think you’ll really love this one! Add a few drops or more ( as I do) of Angostura bitter and stir after you have finished the classic Mojito. Just bliss.
Best places to grab one in central Cuba
We have tried Mojitos in many bars in Cuba. I know, it is a real chore! Here is our list of favourites for Mojito.
- La Mina Terraza in Havana
- Hotel Ambos Mundos Havana
- La Bodeguita del Medio Havana
- Surprising find! The airport in Havana
Enjoy!
Gerla