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This twist on a Cuban classic brings orange juice into the traditional mojito, creating a sweet-tart drink that's perfect for hot days. The blend of fresh mint, citrus zests, and smooth rum strikes just the right balance – familiar yet surprisingly different.
I came up with this drink during a backyard party when my orange tree was giving way too many fruits. What started as just using up extra oranges quickly turned into everyone's favorite request at our summer hangouts.
What You'll Need
- Fresh mint sprigs: They give that must-have mojito smell and taste (don't even think about using dried)
- Cane sugar: Adds the sweetness you want (go for organic if you can)
- Lime juice: Brings that needed tang (squeeze it yourself for best results)
- Orange juice: The main attraction (fresh-squeezed tastes way better than store-bought)
- White rum: Forms the drink's foundation (pick something decent but not super expensive)
- Club soda: Gives bubbles and cuts through sweetness
- Ice: Bigger chunks work best since they melt slower and won't water down your drink
How To Make It
- Get Your Mint Ready:
- Put mint leaves in the bottom of your tall glass. Handle them carefully to avoid bruising before you muddle, or you'll get bitter flavors.
- Mix Your Citrus Base:
- Drop in the sugar, lime juice, and orange juice with the mint. Gently crush everything together with a muddler. Press just enough to get the mint oils out but don't smash the leaves to bits.
- Add Your Spirits:
- Pour rum in and lightly stir with a long spoon to mix the flavors. The rum should blend with the fruit juices without drowning out the orange and mint notes.
- Finish It Off:
- Nearly fill your glass with ice, then top with club soda. For an extra orange kick, save a splash of juice to pour over everything at the end.
- Last Touches:
- Give it a quick stir to combine while keeping the fizz. Take a sip and add more sugar if needed before drinking.
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The mint really makes this drink pop. I grow different types in my garden, and using chocolate mint adds something unexpected that guests always notice. My best summer memory is serving these drinks on our patio as the sun went down and the orange drink matched the sunset colors.
Making It Your Own
This orange mojito can be changed to suit what you like. For less sweetness, cut back to one tablespoon of sugar or try honey syrup instead. If you want more orange taste, add extra juice and use less club soda. Some friends like adding a bit of orange liqueur to bump up the citrus without making it watery.
Picking The Right Stuff
Your citrus quality really matters in this drink. Pick oranges that feel heavy and firm with bright skins – they'll have more juice inside. Before cutting, roll the fruit on your counter to get more juice out. When buying mint, look for bright green leaves with no brown spots or drooping. Fresher ingredients will give you a much more flavorful mojito.
What To Serve It With
This orange mojito tastes great with seafood off the grill, especially shrimp or scallops. The citrus works really well with spicy food too, making it perfect next to tacos or island dishes. For a fancy look, use clear glasses to show off the color, and top with orange slices and extra mint. At summer parties, I let guests make their own at a mojito station where they can choose how sweet and minty they want their drinks.
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Try this bright orange mojito and watch your summer get-togethers become the talk of the town!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap orange juice for another citrus option?
Sure, tangerine or pink grapefruit juice work nicely as alternatives, but fresh-squeezed orange juice gives the best balanced sweetness for this drink.
- → What rum should I pick for this cocktail?
White rum works best in mojitos because it brings a clean, subtle flavor that plays well with the citrus and mint without taking over the drink.
- → How do I make this cocktail alcohol-free?
For a mocktail version, skip the rum and add more club soda or try some orange-flavored sparkling water instead.
- → Can I mix this drink ahead of time?
Mojitos taste best when made right before drinking. You can mix the mint, sugar, and juices early and keep them cold. Just wait to add rum, soda, and ice until you're ready to serve.
- → What's the right way to handle mint for this drink?
Gently press mint leaves with a muddler or wooden spoon handle in your glass. Don't crush them too hard or you'll end up with bitter flavors in your drink.