Party it Up with a Cool “Mojito Rojo”

Mojito Rojo (iStockphoto)The mojito, also known as the "Cuban highball", has quickly become one of the most popular cocktails in the US. A favorite of author Ernest Hemmingway, who discovered it in La Habana's famous Bodeguita del Medio, is a combination of sugar, rum, mint and lime juice resulting in a drink that refreshes the body and excites the palate. This Mojito Rojo recipe adds a new twist of flavor and color to the classic ingredients by adding fresh strawberries as well as strawberry juice to the mix. Make sure to make enough; your party guests will be asking for more. ¡Salud!





Best vino pairings for your favorite Latin foods

Mojito Rojo

Ingredients
1 ounce fresh lime juice (count on 1 lime per 1 ounce)
5-6 fresh mint leaves
1 ¾ ounces white rum
2 ounces strawberry juice (see recipe below)
Ice cubes
3 ounces club soda (or to taste)

Directions
Combine lime juice and mint leaves at the bottom of a highball glass; use a wooden spoon to muddle the mint. Stir in rum and strawberry juice. Fill glass with ice cubes and top with club soda. Stir. Garnish glass with a lime slice and a whole strawberry, and serve. This recipe may be made up to one hour in advance.

Strawberry Juice
1 (16-ounce) package frozen California strawberries with sugar, thawed
2 teaspoons lemon or lime juice

Place thawed berries, including juice, in a very fine-mesh strainer. Push through as much juice as possible. Discard berries. Add lemon or lime juice to strawberry juice and serve or use in drink recipes. Makes about 1 cup.

Recipe courtesy California Strawberry Commission

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