GET INTO THE SPIRIT
Ah, the Mojito—a cool, minty drink that transports you to a beach, even if you’re just lounging in your backyard. But where did this refreshing concoction come from, why is it so delicious, and how can you make a non-alcoholic version at home? Let’s dive into its history.
The Mojito’s roots trace back to the 16th century when Sir Francis Drake sailed around Cuba. After a long day of plundering, his crew needed a drink to ease their aches and cure their scurvy. Enter the “El Draque,” a rough mix of aguardiente (a precursor to rum), sugar, lime, and mint. It was as much medicine as it was a drink.
Fast forward a few centuries, and the recipe evolved. Aguardiente was replaced with smooth Cuban rum, and the Mojito as we know it was born, transitioning from a pirate's grog to a Cuban classic favored by the elite. The Mojito’s fame skyrocketed in the 20th century when Ernest Hemingway discovered it at La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana. If it’s good enough for Hemingway, it’s good enough for the rest of us—though we might prefer a virgin Mojito.
Today, the Mojito is a popular cocktail for a reason. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and a great reason to grow your own mint. But the classic Mojito is just the beginning. This versatile drink has inspired countless variations.
