Summer Cocktails

2009/07/18 6:39 AM

Summer Mojito Cocktails
Guest post by Author and Cookbook Writer Sally Sampson

Warehouse to Your House.
I am anything but a drinker but if I were ever to become one, this would certainly be my summer drink.
Best described as sparkling mint limeade with rum, this classic Cuban cocktail is crying out for interpretation- although I have to admit some versions are way too whacky for my taste. Mine has more lime and mint than the standard fare. It’s a flavor combination I particularly love and I have an endless supply of mint growing by the side of my house.

For a non-alcoholic mojito, simply omit the rum.

¼- ½ cup sugar
¾ cup boiling water
1 bunch fresh mint sprigs
3 limes, thinly sliced, cut into wedges or thin slices
12 ounces fresh lime juice
9 ounces light rum

Ice Cubes
Seltzer

To make a simple syrup: Place the sugar and water in a small heatproof glass pan and stir over low heat until the sugar has dissolved and the liquid is clear. Set aside to cool.

Place the mint leaves and lime slices in a large pitcher and muddle (slightly mash with the straight end of a wooden spoon) together.

Add the lime juice, cooled simple syrup and rum and mix well.

Fill tall glasses with ice cubes and divide the mixture evenly between the six glasses. Fill to the top with seltzer or club soda.

Serves 6