raspberry mojitos on the Outer Banks from SAGA

Sweet summertime on the Outer Banks is sweeter with these refreshing raspberry mojitos

Raspberry mojitos are the perfect refreshing drink in the summertime on the Outer Banks.

You can make this recipe for a party (a pitcher) or just to enjoy as you lounge around the pool. The mojito is one of Cuba’s oldest cocktails and comes from the African word mojo, which means to place a little spell. and did you know it is the national drink of Cuba? 

raspberry mojitos recipe on the Outer Banks SAGA

Mojitos are great to share, so to make a pitcher of mojitos just multiply the ingredients

WHAT YOU’LL NEED 

Simple Syrup 

  • 1 C Water 
  • 1 C Sugar (or 2 tbsp. Agave nectar)  

For the Mojitos 

  • 10 Raspberries (fresh or frozen and for super raspberry flavored mojitos use 1 C berries )
  • 8 Fresh Mint Sprigs (set two aside for garnishing)
  • 2 tbsp. Fresh Lime Juice (from 1 lime) 
  • 2 Lime Wedges (lemon are okay too)  
  • 1 C Ice (preferably crushed )
  • ½ C Soda Water (sparkling carbonated water) 
  • 3 Oz Light Rum (omit for an-alcohol free version) 

Makes 2 servings. Simply multiply the recipe to make a pitcher of mojitos for your group. 

Alternatives or additions: substitute agave nectar for the sugar, or if you prefer honey (reduce liquid by ¼ C), try basil, rosemary, or cucumber.

HOW TO MAKE RASPBERRY MOJITOS 

  1. Prepare simple syrup, by combining 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water and bring it to a boil. (This dissolves the sugar, so it doesn’t sit at the bottom of the drink and ensures it is sweetened evenly) 
  2. Stir to let sugar dissolve and remove from heat. Let syrup cool. 
  3. In two sturdy glasses add mint leaves, raspberries, lime juice, rum and simple syrup. 
  4. With a wooden spoon muddle to extract juices from mint leaves and raspberries. (Muddling is pressing and twisting lightly the mint to release the essential oils and bitter flavor. The leaves are finished when slightly bruised but still intact.) 
  5. Add the crushed ice to the glass and top with sparkling soda water. 
  6. Garnish with more fresh raspberries, mint leaves or lime slices. 

MUDDLING

raspberry mojitos muddling mint SAGA (2)

The muddling brings out the essential oils in the mint to enhance the mojito flavor

MORE VARIATIONS

Many hotels in Havana also add cocktail bitters to cut the sweetness of the Mojito; while icing sugar is often muddled with the mint leaves rather than cane sugar, and many establishments simply use sugar syrup to control sweetness. Many bars today in Havana use lemon juice rather than fresh lime.

In Mexico, they might make their version of mojitos by simply replacing rum with tequila.

In Peru, there are mojito variations that are made by adding fruits like grapefruit, called “Mojito de toronja”, or with passionfruit, called “Mojito de maracuyá”. Many restaurants serve them, and these added ingredients enhance the cocktail and its original flavor. Some other fruits that are found in other mojito recipes: pears, raspberries, and oranges. Source here.

You may also enjoy this recipe from Martha Stewart: Honeydew, Mint, and Lemon-Thyme Mojito.

THE BEACH LIFESTYLE

If living at the beach is your dream we can help! You can sip a mojito with family and friends in your own backyard oasis, or on the sound at sunset. If this interests you, we have model homes open in Kill Devil Hills, Corolla and just 15 minutes to the Outer Banks in Grandy, with new homes starting in the $300s!

Reach out to one of the exceptional SAGA Realty and Construction real estate agents to learn more at 252.301.3090.