Mojito – ikonický kokteil s bohatou históriou, legendami a sviežou chuťou Kuby
History of the Mojito – How the Legendary Cuban Cocktail Was Born
Mojito, now one of the most popular summer drinks in the world, has its roots in sunny Cuba. Its beginnings date back to the 16th century when the English pirate Sir Francis Drake landed on the shores of Havana. At that time, his crew tried to relieve illnesses such as scurvy and dysentery by preparing a medicinal drink made from aguardiente (a precursor to rum), lime, sugar, and mint. This “elixir of health” is considered the ancestor of today’s Mojito.
Later, when higher-quality white rum began to be produced – mainly thanks to the Bacardi brand – the aguardiente was replaced, and the drink acquired a smoother and fresher taste. Mojito became a favorite beverage among locals and tourists alike, and in the 20th century, it was popularized worldwide by Ernest Hemingway, who reportedly drank it at the legendary Havana bar La Bodeguita del Medio.
Where Does the Name “Mojito” Come From?
The etymology of the word Mojito is not entirely clear. Some claim it originates from the African word “mojo”, meaning magic or magical potion. Others believe it derives from the Spanish word “mojadito”, which translates to a little wet. Whatever the truth may be, Mojito has rightfully earned its reputation as a magical cocktail that refreshes both the body and the soul.
Interesting Facts About Mojito You Might Not Know
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Mojito was originally considered a medicinal drink, as lime juice protected sailors from vitamin C deficiency and scurvy.
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Ernest Hemingway made it famous with his iconic quote: “My Mojito in La Bodeguita, my Daiquiri in El Floridita.”
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When preparing a Mojito, mint leaves should not be crushed into a paste – they should only be gently muddled to release essential oils.
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Traditionally, Mojito was mixed with a special type of mint called hierbabuena, native to Cuba, which has a softer and sweeter flavor than common peppermint.
The Best Classic Mojito Recipe
If you want to prepare an authentic Cuban Mojito, here’s a tried-and-true recipe you can follow step by step.
Ingredients (for 1 glass):
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50 ml white rum (e.g. Bacardi Carta Blanca)
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1 lime (freshly squeezed juice – about 30 ml)
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2 teaspoons of cane sugar or 20 ml sugar syrup
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8–10 fresh mint leaves (ideally hierbabuena, the Cuban variety)
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100–120 ml soda water
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Crushed ice
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Mint sprig and lime slice for garnish
Preparation:
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Place the mint leaves, sugar, and lime juice in a tall glass.
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Using a muddler (bar tool for herbs), gently press the leaves – just enough to release their aroma.
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Add the rum and stir until the sugar dissolves.
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Fill the glass with crushed ice up to the top.
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Top up with soda water and stir gently with a bar spoon.
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Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime slice. Serve with a straw.
Tips for Making the Perfect Mojito
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Always use fresh lime juice. Bottled lime juice will never match the taste of fresh fruit.
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Don’t overwork the mint. Crushing it too hard releases bitterness instead of freshness.
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Keep everything ice-cold. Chilled soda water preserves the refreshing, crisp taste.
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Choose a quality rum. A light, clean white rum brings out the perfect balance of lime and mint.
Mojito Variations Worth Trying
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Strawberry Mojito – Add a few crushed strawberries for a fruity summer twist.
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Mango Mojito – An exotic combination that enchants with its tropical sweetness.
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Dirty Mojito – Use golden rum instead of white rum for a richer, deeper flavor.
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Virgin Mojito – A non-alcoholic version with extra soda water and a touch of mint syrup – perfect for hot days.
Why Mojito Is a Timeless Classic
Mojito is more than just a cocktail – it’s a symbol of freedom, summer, music, and Cuba itself. Its perfect balance of sweetness, citrus tang, and minty freshness makes it an irresistible drink that has captured hearts all over the world. Whether you sip it on a beach in Havana or on your terrace at home, Mojito always brings you a little taste of Caribbean sunshine.
Try our recipes for other mixed drinks:
Bloody Mary – step-by-step recipe
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