Orange Tangerine Mojito is a tasty flavor twist for National Mojito Day

National Mojito Day gets an upgrade with this Orange Tangerine Mojito.

If you need a reason to toast National Mojito Day, this Orange Tangerine Mojito could have you thinking of tropical escapes and warm beach breezes. Isn’t it time to enjoy a sip, relax and toast summertime?

The history of the mojito is a muddled as the mint in the cocktail. While Cuba is often associated with the mint forward rum cocktail, the cocktail’s history can go back to the 1500s. Somehow that refreshing drink has been satisfying people for centuries.

One of the legends about the mojito involves Ernest Hemingway. While some people believe that the mojito was preferred by Hemingway, that statement might be more fiction than fact. Still, if you can picture a gentleman sitting by the sandy beaches and enjoying a cocktail, the story could hold some water.

Usually a mojito is a fairly straightforward cocktail. It combines citrus, mint, sweetness and rum. While the flavors can vary based on preference, these ingredients are a staple.

Since citrus flavors are both refreshing and stimulate the palate, it is a perfect cocktail for summer barbecues. Whether drunk before, during or after the meal, the cocktail is a delight.

If you are looking for a different twist for National Mojito Day, this Orange Tangerine Mojito is a delight.

Orange Tangerine Mojito

Ingredients:

6 oz. Natalie’s Tangerine Juice
6 oz. Natalie’s Orange Juice
3 oz. Mint Syrup*
6 oz. Rum
12 oz. Club Soda
Crushed Ice
6 Sprigs of Fresh Mint, for garnish

Directions:

(Yields 6 Servings)

1. Add orange juice, tangerine juice & mint syrup to a pitcher. Stir to combine.
2. Add rum & club soda, stir again.
3. Fill 6 highball glasses with crushed ice.
4. Divide mojito mixture evenly among the 6 glasses & garnish each with a sprig of fresh mint.

Note:
*Mint syrup can be found at specialty wine & liquor stores. If you can find it, you can make your own by doing the following:
1. Heat 1 cup of water with 1 cup of sugar in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a simmer & cook until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat, add 4 sprigs of fresh mint (stems included).
4. Press the leaves & stems with a wooden spoon to release the mint oils, then let the mixture steep for about 15 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture over a fine-mesh strainer, & keep the mint syrup in an air-tight container until ready to use, or for up to 1 week.

Looking at this mojito, the fresh mint syrup really offers a flavor boost. Whether you get mint from the store or grow your own mint, that ingredient makes a huge difference in this cocktail.

Also, if you are looking for another twist, change the club soda for a flavored sparkling water. For example, a lime or lemon bubly would be a great choice. Again, it is about boosting the flavors in each sip.

If you are looking for a flavor twist for National Mojito Day consider mixing up the Orange Tangerine Mojito.

What is your favorite mojito recipe? Are you going to be enjoying one on National Mojito Day?