Nojito

Ingredients

• 8-10 fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 lime, cut into 3-4 wedges
• 2 tsp granulated sugar (or 15ml / 0.5 oz simple syrup for easier mixing)
• Crushed ice
• 120-180ml (4-6 oz) soda water or sparkling water
• Lime wheel or wedge and a mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

1. Muddle the Base: In a sturdy highball glass, add the fresh mint leaves, lime wedges, and granulated sugar (if using simple syrup, add it in step 3).
2. Release the Flavours: Gently muddle the ingredients. Press and twist the muddler to release the essential oils from the mint and the juice from the lime. Be careful not to over-muddle the mint, as this can make it bitter; just enough to release its aroma.
3. Build with Ice: Fill the glass generously with crushed ice. If you're using simple syrup instead of granulated sugar, add it now.
4. Top it Up: Pour the soda water or sparkling water over the ice, almost to the top of the glass.
5. Stir Gently: Give the drink a gentle stir with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients without losing too much of the fizz.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a fresh lime wheel or wedge and a vibrant mint sprig. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Nojito!

Tips

• Mint Freshness: Always use fresh, vibrant mint leaves. Give them a gentle clap between your hands before muddling to awaken their aroma.
• Sugar Alternative: If you prefer a smoother mix, use simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water heated until dissolved, then cooled) instead of granulated sugar. This ensures the sweetness is evenly distributed.
• Ice Quality: Crushed ice is traditional for Mojitos and Nojitos as it chills the drink quickly and provides a pleasant texture. If you don't have crushed ice, wrap ice cubes in a clean tea towel and gently smash them with a rolling pin.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar or simple syrup to your personal taste.

Variations

• Fruity Nojito: Add a few muddled berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) or thin slices of cucumber along with the mint and lime for an extra layer of flavour.
• Ginger Nojito: Replace the soda water with ginger ale or ginger beer for a spicier kick.
• Herbal Twist: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or rosemary (use sparingly) alongside the mint for a unique aromatic profile.
• Coconut Nojito: Add a splash of coconut water or a tiny bit of coconut cream for a tropical, creamy variation.