Hello, cocktail enthusiasts! Ever wondered how to make strawberry mojito and that too a delicious one? Worry not! Whether you are a novice bartender or a drink lover, with this article, you will know the basic ingredients and step-by-step process to make a refreshing strawberry mojito.
So, get ready to impress your family and friends with your strawberry mojito pitcher recipe.
1. Strawberry Mojito
A strawberry mojito is a delicious cocktail made with fresh strawberries, mint leaves, simple syrup (or sugar), white rum, lime juice and club soda. Itโs a fruity twist on the classic mojito.
It is popular among both alcoholic as well as non-alcoholic people. Known for its fruity tanginess and freshness, it is a perfect drink for warm weather or any gatherings.
2. Ingredients
To make a refreshing strawberry mojito, the following ingredients are required:
- 6-8 fresh and sweet strawberries
- Fresh mint leaves (8-10 leaves)
- Lime wedges or lime juice (1-2 limes)
- 1-2 tablespoons of simple syrup (or sugar)
- Light/white rum (2 ounces or 60 ml)
- Club soda or sparkling water (4-6 ounces or 120-180ml)
- Ice cubes (you can also opt for crushed ice)
Note that the exact quantities may vary depending on your taste preferences.
3. Selection and Preparation of the Strawberries
First of all, gather some fresh and juicy strawberries and then wash them properly.
The next step is to hull the strawberries. This can be done as follows:
- Angle a small and sharp knife around the green leafy top of the strawberry and into the flesh then cut it in a circular motion.
- Remove them and wash them again under cold water before using.
Strawberries can also be hulled in two more ways, which are as follows:
- You can firmly grab the stem of the strawberry and twist it to pull out the leaves.
- Another way you can do it is to push a straw through the bottom of the strawberry and the top. With this, the leaves will pop out at once.
After hulling them, cut them into small pieces or slices. Also, set aside some of the berries for garnishing.
4. Mint Leaves
Mint leaves are a major ingredient for any mojitos. This is because adding them to the recipe gives off a refreshing and aromatic flavour.
And adding them to a strawberry mojito provides a delightful aroma and flavour, which complements the sweetness of the strawberry. Mint also contains a cooling effect, so adding them to the mojito enhances the drinkโs overall freshness.
Additionally, the vibrant green colour of the leaves looks attractive in the mojito when added.
I. Arrange the Leaves
Wash the mint leaves under cold water to remove any dirt.
Then, gently pat it dry to remove the excess moisture.
After drying the leaves, roll them between your palms. This lets them release their aroma.
Lastly, either chop the leaves or tear them into smaller pieces to help them release their flavour in the mojito.
ii. Storing Mint Leavesย
Store any leftover mint leaves in an airtight container or damp paper cloth.
Then keep the container in the refrigerator to preserve their freshness.
Although after storage, they will stay fresh for a few days, itโs best to use them within two days when they are still fragrant.
Additionally, mint leaves are a traditional element in the classic mojitos, so it is often included in a strawberry mojito also.
5. Simple Syrup
Simple syrup or sugar syrup is an essential element for a strawberry mojito. Below is a recipe for homemade simple syrup:
Ingredients required:
- A cup of granulated sugar
- One cup water
i. Directions:
First of all, in a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water.
The next step is to heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar gets completely dissolved.
After the sugar is dissolved, remove the pan from the gas stove and let the syrup cool down to room temperature.
Then transfer the syrup to a clean jar and store it in the refrigerator.
You can keep this syrup in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Simple syrup is such a versatile sweetener as it can be used in many cocktails, lemonades, iced tea and in other beverages.
The simple syrup plays an essential role in sweetening the mojito. The combination of the berries, mint and lime juice can be refreshing but it can also be too acidic. And adding simple syrup can balance these acidic flavours.
The sweetness of the syrup helps to counteract the sharpness of the citric taste and the bitterness of mint, which results in a well-balanced refreshing drink. Also, it enhances the overall taste of the cocktail.
6. Lime Juice
Using freshly squeezed lime juice in a strawberry mojito is important for various reasons:
- For Freshness and Flavour
Freshly squeezed lime juice contains some natural oils and aromatic elements which contributes to a more refreshing and intense citrus flavour compared to any pre-packaged lime juice. This enhances the overall taste of the mojito.
- For the Acidity Balance
Lime juice provides the essential acidic taste to balance the sweetness of berries along with any other additional sweeteners in a mojito. This creates a delicious flavour, preventing the drink from becoming overly sweet.
- For the Aroma of the Fresh Lime
The essential oils present in the fresh lime juice add an extra aroma to the cocktail, making the drink more inviting.
7. Selection of Rum
For a mojito, whether a strawberry mojito or any other mojito, light or white rum is generally the best choice. Light rum has a mild flavour as compared to other aged rums, which complements the fruity flavour of strawberry and lime without overpowering them. The smooth taste of white rum goes well with the delicate and fruity nature of the cocktail.
When selecting a white rum, consider one that is not too harsh and has subtle hints of tropical fruit. This enhances the taste of the mojito, making the drink pleasant.
Cuban-style rums are widely known for their smoothness and delicate sweetness, making them an ideal choice for mixing in cocktails. They have a perfectly balanced flavour with some hints of tropical fruit, vanilla and a slight touch of oak, which enhances the overall taste of strawberry mojito, without competing with the flavours of berries and limes.
So ultimately, the best rum for a strawberry mojito is one which doesnโt beat the fruity flavours of the drink, but complements them, improving the overall experience of the cocktail. Since Cuban-style white rum fits this description, it is the top choice for creating a delicious strawberry mojito.
Note that the best rum for a strawberry mojito is subjective. You should try different light rums to find which one suits your taste and most importantly, enhances the flavours of the cocktail. Popular choices include brands like Bacardi, Havana Club or Flor de Cana. Donโt hesitate to explore more to find your perfect match.
8. Muddling Process
The muddling process is a crucial step in making a delicious strawberry mojito. This process involves gently crushing the strawberries and mint sprigs to release essential oils and flavours, making the drink more flavorful.
To muddle the ingredients properly, follow the steps below:
- To start, take a sturdy glass. You can also opt for a cocktail shaker. Then add the strawberries and mint leaves to the vessel.
- Use a muddler. Muddler is a bartending tool designed specifically for this purpose. If you donโt have a muddler, you can use the back of a spoon as a substitute.
- Gently press down and twist the berries and mint leaves with the help of a muddler. The actual purpose is to bruise and crush them slightly without turning them into pulp.
- Remember, not to use too much force as the seeds of berries or the bitterness of mint leaves may affect the flavour of the drink.
- Continue this process until you smell the aroma of mint and strawberries being crushed, releasing their juices.
- After that, you can add lime juice or any sweetener to the mixture.
- Lastly, add the rum and ice to the glass and give it a good stir.
- Remember, to be patient while muddling as it ultimately affects the overall taste of the mojito.
9. How to Make Strawberry Mojito?
Below is the detailed recipe for making a delicious strawberry mint cocktail/strawberry mojito:
9.1. Gather the Ingredients
The ingredients you will need are fresh strawberries, fresh mint leaves, lime wedges, simple syrup, white rum, soda and ice. The quantities of each ingredient have been mentioned above.
9.2. Start with a Glassย
Choose a highball glass to muddle the ingredients. You can also go for a cocktail shaker.
9.3. Adding the Ingredients
Add some sliced strawberries and a handful of mint leaves at the bottom of the vessel.
9.4. Use Muddler and Muddle Gently
Use either a muddler or the back of the spoon and muddle the berries and mints gently to release their flavour. This process has been explained above.
9.5. Adding Lime Juice and Syrup
After muddling, squeeze fresh lime juice into the glass and add sugar or simple syrup to taste. Stir them briefly so that the mixture mixes evenly. This will further enhance the flavours of strawberries and mints.
9.6. Measure the Rum and Add It
Pour 2 ounces of light or white rum into the glass. This is the general amount for a strawberry mojito, but you can add it according to your taste. The suggestions regarding the rum have been explained above in detail.
9.7. Add Crushed Ice or Ice Cubes
Fill the glass or shaker with crushed ice or ice cubes till the top.
9.8. Shaking
This part is optional. But, if you are using a cocktail shaker, first cover it with the lid and shake properly and continuously for 10-15 seconds for the drink to chill and the flavours to get mixed thoroughly.
If you are using a highball glass, just skip this step and proceed further to the next one.
9.9. Top with Soda
The next step is to fill the glass or shaker with club soda or sparkling water. The amount should be about 120-180 ml, to add fizz and also to dilute the mixture slightly.
9.10. Stir It Gently
Use a long spoon or a cocktail spoon to stir the ingredients to ensure they are well combined. If you are using a shaker, then pour the mixture into a highball glass and then stir it gently.
9.11. Garnish and Then Serve
Garnish the cocktail with fresh mint sprigs and strawberry slices. You can also opt for lime wheels. Finally, serve the cocktail while itโs still fresh and chilled. The fresh strawberry mojito is ready.
10. Glassware to Use
The most ideal glassware for serving a refreshing cocktail is either a highball glass or a Collins glass. The Collins glasses are tall and narrow, having a capacity of 10-14 ounces. It allows enough room for ice, the drink and garnishes. Additionally, the tall shape also helps in maintaining the drinkโs carbonation and keeps it chill for a long time.
11. Variations of The Cocktail
The strawberry mojito is a versatile cocktail, and you can add different fruits or herbs for making the drink more delicious.
11.1. Pineapple Strawberry Mojito
The addition of fresh small chunks of pineapple to the cocktail gives it more of a tropical touch.
11.2. Raspberry Strawberry Mojito
Add a few fresh raspberries to make the drink slightly tart and vibrant.
11.3. Blueberry Strawberry Mojito
Adding blueberries to the cocktail may not only give a burst of colour but will provide a sweet and tart taste.
11.4. Mango Strawberry Mojito
Blend a ripe mango with strawberries to add some tropical sweetness and texture to the mojito.
12. How to Make Strawberry Mojito Mocktail?
Below is a delicious recipe for a non-alcoholic strawberry mojito for those who prefer a booze-free option:
Non-Alcoholic Strawberry Mojito/ Virgin Strawberry Mojito
12.1. Ingredients Required
- 6-8 fresh strawberries
- A handful of mint leaves
- Fresh limes
- 1-2 tablespoons of simple syrup ( according to your taste)
- Bubbly club soda
- Ice
- Extra strawberries and mint sprigs for garnish
12.2. Instructions to Follow
Wash the berries and hull them. After hulling, cut them into small slices or quarters.
Then, wash the lime properly and cut it into wedges.
In a tall glass, place the strawberries and mint leaves
Squeeze the juice from lime wedges into the glass.
Use the muddler/back of the spoon to muddle the ingredients together, releasing their flavours.
Next, add syrup to the glass and stir it well.
After stirring it properly, fill the glass with crushed ice.
Then top up the glass with bubbly club soda or you can also use Sprite, stirring gently for them to mix evenly.
Garnish with the extra strawberries and mint sprigs or however, you want.
Serve it and enjoy your virgin strawberry mojito.
This is a fantastic alternative for those looking to enjoy a refreshing non-alcoholic version of the classic strawberry cocktail.
13. Complementary Dishes
Strawberry mojitos go well with a variety of dishes and snacks. Below are some options to enhance the overall enjoyment of the drink:
- The fresh fruit platter consists of strawberries, watermelon, pineapple and blueberry.
- Grilled shrimp or chicken skewers.
- Guacamole with tortilla chips.
- Bruschetta.
- Cheese platter.
- Lemon garlic grilled chicken skewers.
14. History of Mojito
Mojito is a classic Cuban cocktail that has its origin in Cuba approx. during the 16th century. Its exact history is still unknown but it is believed that it had been created by pirates and sailors to make their rum more delicious by adding lime, mint and sugar to overpower its harsh taste.
The name mojito is derived from the Spanish word โmojoโ, which means little spell or charm.
Over the years, the mojito has evolved and has become popular worldwide, most specifically during the early 20th century. Today, the mojito is a favourite summer drink among people because of its refreshing taste.
The strawberry mojito is a variation of the traditional classic mojito, with an addition of a fruity twist. As the classic cocktail became popular, the bartenders started to experiment with different ingredients to create new variations. With this, strawberry mojito was introduced and became popular because of its attractive red hue during the late 20s and early 21st century.
15. Health Benefits
The strawberry mojito is a refreshing and delicious cocktail. Additionally, this refreshing cocktail also has some health benefits. These are discussed below:
- Rich in Vitamin C Content
Strawberries and lime are excellent sources of vitamin C. This helps in collagen production as well as improves the immune system.
- Hydration
The combination of strawberries and mints in the mojito can provide hydration to the body, specifically during warm weather.
- Aids in Digestion
We all know that mint has digestive properties. The addition of mint in the drink helps in alleviating indigestion and soothes the stomach.
- Helps in Reducing Stress
Having a refreshing and flavorful strawberry mojito combined with the aroma of mint promotes relaxation. It does have positive effects on mental health.
Lastly, it is advisable to drink the mojitos at a minimum level. Although strawberry mojitos and other refreshing cocktails can be delicious, containing numerous health benefits, itโs necessary to remember that they should be consumed in moderation, as they contain alcohol.
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Check Out: Where Are Mojitos From?
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Last Updated on by Himani Rawat
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