Parched summer palates demand refreshments that are icy cold, wet, and flavorful. For sophisticated adult palates, the mojito, a classic Cuban cocktail, and the julep, beloved in the American South, check all the right summer boxes. Mint, muddled or crushed with sugar prior to the addition of liquid ingredients, adds distinctive flavor notes to these drinks.
But, which mint is best for an authentic mojito or traditional julep? The Mentha genus is large and full of popular varieties and hybrids. That kind of abundance is a blessing for cooks and cocktail makers, but it can also be daunting. The mints below are the best choices for these fabled libations.
Mint. Spearmint is most commonly used for mojitos and is what you’ll likely find at the grocery store labeled generically as “mint.” For an authentic Cuban mojito, use mojito mint, or Mentha x villosa, a type of mint native to Cuba with a more understated flavor than that of spearmint.
Mojito Mint, Mentha x villosa, was brought to North America from Cuba about 10 years ago. Up until 2005 or 2006 this mint was rare and hard to get outside of Cuba. Yerba Buena and Mojito Mint are used interchangeably in the popular cocktail, particularly in Havanna, because they have a similar flavor. They’re both in the same family by the way.
My favorite herb is actually a toss up between mint, basil and thyme but mint is hands up the one I use almost every day. I love lemon in my water and when I throw in a few leaves of mint, then all’s well in my world. I love Mojito Mint and was so happy when I found it at the Tucson Farmers Market. But, truth be told, is the name just a marketing ploy???
+ Mint prefers to be planted in a rich, loamy soil. I used a mixture of 1 part planting mix, 1 part potting soil & 1/4 part compost, all organic. I live in the desert so I added in the planting mix to help hold in the moisture. If you live somewhere with more rain, then just using potting soil & compost will be fine. I also sprinkled in some worm castings too.
The Mojito: A Taste of Havana
There are many origin stories associated with the mojito (click here for the traditional Havana-style recipe), but one thing is clear–it was popularized by novelist Ernest Hemingway, who first enjoyed it in the 1950s at a favorite Havana bar. The cocktail’s fame spread, and by 2002, even super-spy James Bond tossed one back in the film Die Another Day.
A classic mojito embodies the flavor of the Caribbean in a fizzy mix of white rum, lime juice, mint, sugar, and club soda or sparkling water. Ice cubes keep the drink cold. Nonalcoholic versions omit the rum.
Until early in the 21st century, mixologists looking for mint to flavor mojitos often used spearmint (Mentha spicata), which has a familiar, piquant mint flavor. Some drink makers also used peppermint (Mentha x piperita), but the mint flavor in peppermint leaves is much stronger and spicier than that of spearmint.
Around 2006, Cuban mint (Mentha x villosa), native to the island, began making appearances in the United States, and bartenders started using this “original” mojito mint in the rum drinks. Since that time, Cuban mint has become more readily available, especially for those who are willing to grow their own.
Mint connoisseurs say that Cuban mint has a somewhat milder flavor than spearmint, along with citrus notes that marry well with the lime juice in the cocktail.
The mint julep (click here for the traditional recipe from the Kentucky Derby) comes with its own collection of romantic and/or evocative stories, featuring a cast of larger-than-life characters ranging from Andrew Jackson to Teddy Roosevelt, William Faulkner, and Ernest Hemingway (a prodigious cocktail consumer). The drink, traditionally served in a frosty silver or pewter cup, is a popular hot-weather tipple all over the South (and elsewhere) but is most often associated with the Kentucky Derby. It has been the official cocktail of the Derby since 1983, and hundreds of thousands of them have been served to racegoers ever since.
Juleps are traditionally made with bourbon, mint, sugar, and lots of shaved or crushed ice. Julep aficionados might argue that quality bourbon is the most important component, but the mint also plays a defining role. In many recipes, the instructions simply refer to “mint leaves”, without reference to specific types. Overall, the most common mint for juleps is spearmint, which harmonizes nicely with both the sugar and the bourbon.
In a bow to tradition and the Derby, one variety of spearmint, with especially large leaves, was named ‘Kentucky Colonel’, however, any spearmint will work well in the drink.
Cocktail purists might frown, but you can enhance the flavors of mojitos and juleps with other mints, according to personal taste. Mojitos, with their lime flavor components, might include lime-scented peppermint (Mentha x piperata f. citrata ‘Lime’). While a challenge to hallowed tradition might just be enough to scare the horses at Churchill Downs, julep lovers who like the combination of mint and chocolate can flavor their drinks with chocolate mint (Mentha x piperata ‘Chocolate’). It is pretty and tastes sensational. The chocolate flavor is mild but discernible. The pretty variegated pineapple mint (Mentha suaveolens ‘Variegata’) is another sweet variety to try for a fruity twist.
Refreshing Mojito Recipe with Fresh Mint Leaves – Recipes with Luis
FAQ
Is Mojito mint peppermint or spearmint?
What type of mint is used in cocktails?
What is the mojito mint plant called?
What is a classic mojito made of?
What is a classic mint Mojito?
This Classic Mint Mojito recipe is made with fresh squeezed limes, mint leaves, and rum. It’s a refreshing drink for a hot summer night and a great way to use up any mint in your garden. Love easy summer cocktails? Then try my Blood Orange Mojito and Red Wine Sangria! Want to save this recipe?
What are the benefits of consuming mint leaves?
Mint leaves have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can improve teeth and gum health. The act of chewing them, also helps with cleaning the mouth and teeth. Mint leaves also boost the immune system, improve skin health, beat morning sickness and nausea, help with allergies and asthma, and manage stress.
What is a Cuban Mojito Mint?
The mint pictured above, is from the garden of a Cuban seaside restaurant. They grow their own mint, called Mojito Mint (Mentha x villosa), and it made the most refreshing mojitos. For an authentic Cuban mojito, use Mojito Mint! Mojito Mint (Mentha x villosa) was brought to North America about 15 years ago and is native to Cuba.
Where can I find Mojito Mint?
Mojito Mint (Mentha x villosa) was brought to North America about 15 years ago and is native to Cuba. Look for it in your local nurseries, and it’s easy to grow at home. Just be sure to plant it in a pot, or it will take over your garden! At the store, most fresh mint herb packages won’t usually say the specific plant species.