If there is any drink as common to college parties as Coors Light, it is rum. Every college student knows it as the clear alcohol that mixes with Coca-Cola (this mix is actually called a Cuba Libre, when using good rum and a lime wedge). However, rum is a very versatile and varied alcohol. There are many different varieties that can go into many different drinks. There’s the nuanced flavor of spiced rum, and then the strong dark rum.
But let’s take a minute to look at the staple of college students: white rum. It’s light in flavor, and a bit sweet. Many of the brands college students favor are a bit strong, without a real refined taste. However, that does not mean that it’s useless. In fact, it can be used for a very simple, inexpensive, and absolutely delicious cocktail: the mojito.
The mojito is one of the greatest exports from Cuba, along with the infamous Che Guevara photo and the setting for wonderful scenes in The Godfather Pt. II. It is tropical, sweet, and very refreshing on a hot day. The mix of lime, mint, and sugar gives it a taste unlike any other. It’s the perfect way to elevate a relatively looked down upon alcohol to an excellent cocktail.
The Mojito
1 1/2 oz. white rum
1 lime cut in half
1/2 oz. simple syrup (basically sugar water, with a high sugar-to-water ratio)
4 mint leaves
Soda water
Crushed ice or ice cubes
In a glass, take the mint leaves, pour in the simple syrup, and the juice of the two lime halves. Crush the mint leaves into the mix until fully muddled, or mixed. Add in the ice, and pour in the rum. Top off with some soda water, and garnish with some extra mint.
Image Credit: Sami Keinänen
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