Cool off this summer with a Mojito de Aguardiente! This easy recipe uses Aguardiente, lime juice, cane sugar, club soda and fresh mint to make a refreshing cocktail.
Prep time:
1 minute
Mixing time:
1 minute
Servings:
1
Calories:
172
Ingredients
- 2 oz Aguardiente - preferably anise-flavored
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- ¾ cane sugar syrup
- 8-12 fresh mint leaves
- 1-2 oz soda water - to top up
- Crushed ice
- Lime slice and mint sprig - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Highball Glass
- Measuring Jigger
- Stirrer or Bar Spoon
- Straw
Instructions
- Mix Mint and Sugar: Take 8-12 fresh mint leaves in one hand and gently smack it with the other to release its aromas. Drop it into the Highball glass and add ¾ cane sugar syrup.
- Add Lime Juice: Pour in 1 oz fresh lime juice.
- Add Aguardiente: Measure and pour 2 oz Aguardiente into the glass.
- Add Ice: Fill the glass three-quarters full with crushed ice.
- Stir: Using a bar spoon or long stirrer, churn well to combine the ingredients.
- Add Ice: Add a straw and top up with more crushed ice, forming a mounded top.
- Top with Soda: Fill the glass with a 1-2 oz soda water.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lime slice and a sprig of mint and serve immediately.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Aguardiente: Aguardiente being a vast category of spirits, you can use any kind of aguardiente you like to prepare this cocktail: whether it is grain, sugar cane or fruit-based aguardiente, feel free to experiment with different kinds and bottles when preparing this cocktail. If you don't have Aguardiente at all, you can use white rum as a substitute (to make a classic Mojito) or use other eaux de vie such as pisco or unaged grappa for a different kick. As one of the most famous kinds of Aguardiente is anise-flavored aguardiente, you can replicate this flavor by using light rum as a base for your cocktail and adding just a bar spoon of white absinthe of Pastis.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Bottled lime juice works in a pinch, but I prefer fresh for its vibrant flavor. Fresh lemon juice can also be used if you're out of limes, though it will alter the taste slightly.
- Cane Sugar Syrup: You can make your own syrup by dissolving equal parts cane sugar and water over low heat. Alternatively, you can also use regular simple syrup to make this cocktail.
Making it Vegan:
The Mojito de Aguardiente is naturally vegan as it doesn't contain any animal products. Most spirits, including aguardiente, are vegan-friendly. However, some brands may use animal products in their production process, especially if a filtration process is involved. Always check the brand's website or contact them directly to ensure their products are vegan. The same goes for the sugar & sugar syrup, as some sugars are processed using bone char; to avoid this problem, stick to organic brown sugar when making your cane sugar syrup.What is a Mojito de Aguardiente?
A Mojito de Aguardiente is a cocktail made with Aguardiente, fresh lime juice, sugar syrup, mint leaves, and soda water. This drink combines the distinctive flavor of Aguardiente with the classic elements of a mojito, creating a unique twist on the traditional Cuban favorite. It’s simple to prepare using basic ingredients and tools, such as a muddler, shaker, and a tall glass. The Mojito de Aguardiente is a delightful choice for those seeking a crisp, minty cocktail with a touch of Latin American flair.
What is a Mojito de Aguardiente made of – The ingredients
Prepare these ingredients to start your Mojito de Aguardiente:
- Aguardiente: Provides the base spirit with a distinct anise flavor.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Adds a tangy and refreshing citrus note.
- Cane Sugar Syrup: Sweetens the drink and balances the lime’s acidity.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: Infuse the cocktail with a refreshing, herbal aroma and taste.
- Soda Water: Adds effervescence and lightens the drink.
- Crushed Ice: Chills the drink and dilutes the intense flavors slightly as it melts.
- Lime Slice and Mint Sprig (optional): Enhances presentation and adds extra aroma.
