Mojito

Known as a traditional Cuban highball, a mojito is usually served with five ingredients including white rum, sugar cane juice, lime juice, sparkling water and mint. Although modern cocktails may differ slightly, depending on where they are consumed, the original Cuban recipe also makes use of spearmint or ‘yerba buena’; two mint plants that are popular on the island. Courtesy of Hayes & Jarvis - The UKs Favourite Cocktail http://www.hayesandjarvis.co.uk/holidays/content/the-uks-favourite-cocktail

• Ready In: 10 mins
• Serves: 1

Ingredients

• 50  ml white rum
• 1⁄2  fresh lime
• 12  fresh mint leaves
• 2  teaspoons caster sugar
•  soda water (to taste)
•  cracked  ice cube
•  mint leaf (to garnish)

Directions

1. Combine lime juice, sugar and mint into a glass, muddle together and pour over rum and ice.
2. Garnish with mint leaves.
3. A common mistake with the beloved Mojito is over-aggressiveness with the mint leaves – these need not be shredded or obliterated to benefit from the cool flavour.
4. The best method is to use a muddler or, prior to adding to the drink, place the mint leaves in one hand and clap both hands together. This will ensure that the essential oils are released from the leaves and the flavours are strong, without being overbearing.