Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Exotic Flavor: The use of Thai basil imparts a slightly spicy and anise-like taste, elevating the traditional mojito experience.
Simple Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you can craft this delightful beverage.
Versatile Appeal: Perfect for warm days, gatherings, or when you’re in the mood for something uniquely refreshing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups ice, or as needed
1 fluid ounce fresh lime juice
3/4 fluid ounce simple syrup
12 fresh Thai basil leaves
1 1/2 fluid ounces rum
2 fluid ounces club soda
Lime wedge (optional, for garnish)
Thai basil sprig (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Fill a Collins glass with ice and set aside.
In a cocktail shaker, combine the fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and Thai basil leaves. Use a muddler to gently crush the basil leaves for about 10 seconds, releasing their aromatic oils.
Add the rum and 1 cup of ice to the shaker. Seal and shake vigorously until the outside becomes frosted, approximately 10 to 15 seconds.
Strain the mixture into the prepared Collins glass.
Top with club soda and gently stir to combine.
Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of Thai basil, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1 cocktail
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace the rum with additional club soda or a non-alcoholic rum alternative for a refreshing mocktail.
Fruit Infusion: Add muddled fruits like strawberries or mango to introduce a fruity dimension to the drink.
Herbal Twist: Combine Thai basil with other herbs such as cilantro or mint for a more complex herbal profile.

Storage/Reheating

This cocktail is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to savor its fresh flavors and effervescence. It’s not suitable for storage or reheating.

FAQs

What does Thai basil taste like?

Thai basil has a distinct flavor with notes of anise and spice, differing from the sweeter taste of regular basil.

Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?

While you can use regular basil, the unique flavor of Thai basil provides the characteristic taste of this cocktail.

Is there a specific type of rum that works best?

A light or white rum is traditionally used for mojitos, offering a clean and subtle flavor that complements the basil.

How do I make simple syrup?

Simple syrup is made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. Heat the mixture until the sugar dissolves, then cool before using.

Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?

It’s best prepared fresh. However, you can mix the lime juice, simple syrup, and basil ahead of time and add rum and club soda when serving.

What can I use instead of club soda?

Sparkling water or soda water can be used as substitutes for club soda.

How can I adjust the sweetness?

Modify the amount of simple syrup to your taste preference, adding more for sweetness or less for a tarter drink.

Is muddling necessary?

Muddling helps release the essential oils from the basil, enhancing the cocktail’s flavor.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

What food pairs well with a Thai Basil Mojito?

This cocktail pairs well with light appetizers, seafood dishes, or spicy Thai cuisine.

Conclusion

The Thai Basil Mojito is a delightful and refreshing cocktail that brings an exotic twist to a classic favorite. Its harmonious blend of citrus, sweetness, and herbal notes makes it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, this cocktail is sure to impress.

Thai Basil Mojito

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 cocktail
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

The Thai Basil Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic mojito cocktail. Infused with the aromatic, slightly spicy flavors of Thai basil, this drink is a unique and delightful choice for any occasion. Perfect for summer parties, gatherings, or a relaxing evening, it’s a simple yet flavorful cocktail that combines fresh lime, rum, and a hint of anise-like basil. Discover how easy it is to create this exotic, effervescent beverage in minutes!

Ingredients

2 cups ice (or as needed)

1 fluid ounce fresh lime juice

3/4 fluid ounce simple syrup

12 fresh Thai basil leaves

1 1/2 fluid ounces rum

2 fluid ounces club soda

Lime wedge (optional, for garnish)

Thai basil sprig (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Fill a Collins glass with ice and set aside.
In a cocktail shaker, combine the fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and Thai basil leaves. Muddle the basil gently for about 10 seconds to release its aromatic oils.
Add the rum and 1 cup of ice to the shaker. Seal and shake vigorously until the outside becomes frosted (about 10 to 15 seconds).
Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
Top with club soda and gently stir to combine.
Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of Thai basil, if desired.

Notes

For added fruit flavor, muddle fruits like strawberries or mango in the shaker.

Experiment with mixing Thai basil with other herbs, like mint or cilantro, for an extra twist.

It’s best to serve this cocktail immediately to preserve its fresh, effervescent flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Category: Cocktail
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: Thai-inspired