Grow Some Spearmint; Make A Mojito

This is the spearmint plant I have growing in a pot on my porch. The slightest movement of the leaves creates a wonderful aroma.

I started growing it mostly as an experiment after seeing it for sale at my local nursery. I’ve always liked the smell of spearmint, but wasn’t sure what I would do with it.

Well, it adapts perfectly to a classic Mojito cocktail – a refreshing and light drink for summertime, which normally uses peppermint. I think I like it better with spearmint.

Since tomorrow is Independence Day and perhaps a time you might be having guests over for a barbecue, I thought it might be good day to post this photo and my Mojito recipe.

MARTHA’S SPEARMINT MOJITO: 

5 or 6 fresh spearmint (or peppermint) leaves
1-1/2 to 2 oz. of silver rum
2 oz. of limeade
2 oz. of soda water or seltzer water 

• Pick and wash fresh leaves and place in a 12-oz. Old Fashioned glass or short tumbler
•  Add rum
• Muddle the leaves (with the pestle from a mortar and pestle set, or just take the end of a teaspoon and press into the leaves) – to get the oil essence released and into the rum
• Keep the leaves in the glass with the rum and fill with ice cubes
• Add limeade, then soda water
• Serve

Optional: I don’t do it, but some people like to run a lime wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip it in sugar to prepare the glass before making this drink.

 

Have a safe and happy 4th of July. Cheers!

www.MarthaLochertPhotography.com