A Mojo for Mojito
Yesterday, we celebrated my father’s **th birthday. It was probably one of the best times we’ve shared celebrating the day that Pops was born. My family came over to our home and we had a little fiesta a la cumpleaños (birthday party).
For appetizers, I made my famous Mexican dip (see previous post) while my sister made my guacamole recipe (see previous post). The main course consisted of my Lebanese potato salad (see previous post) grilled steaks (thanks to my grill-master) and grilled tomatoes (I highly recommend trying). It was a delicious evening!
As great as that all was, there is one fact that cannot be denied… All that is not the same without a summer celebration cocktail (pardon me for sounding like Sandra Lee, it will not happen again). In the backyard of my parents house stands about 2 square feet of tall, fresh mint leaves. These have been growing ever since I can remember and my parents have always incorporated fresh mint leaves into our meals. I highly recommend drying, crushing and sprinkling some over cold salads and even freshly scrambled eggs. That sounds odd but you won’t regret it. Think of it as a substitute for black pepper, or even your habitual hot sauce douse.
Anyway, my sister had the excellent idea to have a themed drink throughout the evening. Being Lebanese, this is not a foreign concept during gatherings. She decided to make Mojito’s! After a few trial runs, we perfected the recipe! It was a popular choice and everyone was beyond satisfied with this refreshing, summer drink. This quick drink recipe is the first non-food item that has made it on the list of food AND drink that is fun, easy and positively delicious!
Simple Syrup: (quantity can vary depending on how much you plan on using)
QUICK TIP: This can be saved and refrigerated for later use
2 cups water
2 cups sugar
Pour the water and sugar in a small to medium sauce pan and bring to a boil. Make sure to continue to stir and let it simmer until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Mojito
1/4 lime
1 oz simple syrup
2 oz white rum
3 oz club soda
4-5 mint leaves
ice
1. In a tall and narrow glass, muddle the (washed) mint leaves enough to break the mint leaves into small pieces. If you do not have a muddler, simply rip the mint leaves like paper until they are in small pieces
2. Fill the cup with ice but make sure to leave enough room for the liquids
3. Squeeze the slice of lime into the cup
4. Mix in the rest of the ingredients then stir lightly
5. If the glass has enough room, add more ice and a slice of lime for garnish
Cheers to summer and all the joys it brings!
