Thai Basil Mojito Cocktail Recipe

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Thai Basil Mojito Nutrition Facts

Calories:200

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:12g

Alcohol:14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: January 7, 2024

History

The Thai Basil Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic Cuban Mojito, incorporating the flavors of Thai basil and lemongrass. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy the taste of Southeast Asian cuisine and are looking for a unique and flavorful drink. The combination of Thai basil and lemongrass adds a touch of exoticism to the traditional Mojito, making it a popular choice for adventurous drinkers.

How Thai Basil Mojito Tastes?

The Thai Basil Mojito has a bright, refreshing, and slightly sweet taste with a hint of spiciness from the Thai basil. The lemongrass adds a subtle citrusy note, while the mint provides a cooling sensation. The rum gives the cocktail a smooth and slightly sweet backbone.

Interesting facts about Thai Basil Mojito

  • The Thai Basil Mojito is a fusion of Cuban and Thai flavors, combining the classic Mojito with Thai ingredients.
  • Thai basil has a unique flavor profile, with a hint of spiciness and a strong anise-like aroma.
  • Lemongrass is a common ingredient in Thai cuisine and is known for its citrusy and slightly sweet flavor.

Ingredients

  • White rum: 2 oz(60ml)
  • Fresh lime juice: 1 oz(30ml)
  • Simple syrup: 0.5 oz(15ml)
  • Thai basil leaves: 6-8
  • Mint leaves: 6-8
  • Lemongrass: 1 stalk
  • Club soda: Top
  • Sliced lime: 1
  • Garnish with thai basil sprig: 1

White Rum

Used as the base spirit, giving the cocktail its kick and smooth, sweet undertones. If you skimp on the rum, you'll have a mojito that doesn't quite lift your spirits. Too much, and you'll overshadow the delicate herby notes.

Emma Rose

Fresh Lime Juice

Adds a tangy zest, balancing the sweetness and refreshing the palate. Without it, your mojito might be a touch too sweet. If your life gives you lemons instead, you'll end up with a different twist on the cocktail that's a bit more on the tart side.

Alex Green

Simple Syrup

It's the sweet to your sour, ensuring your drink isn't puckeringly tangy. Leave it out, and you might need to brace for a zingy wake-up call to your taste buds—or add more if you prefer a sweeter sip.

Mary Mitkina

Thai Basil Leaves

These are the heart of the 'Thai' in your mojito. They introduce a unique, peppery flavor that standard basil just can't match. The absence of it would be like visiting Thailand and skipping the Grand Palace—disappointing.

Emma Rose

Mint Leaves

Mint adds a cool, crisp finish, complementing the Thai basil. Forgetting the mint is like forgetting to chill your glass—it still works, but it's not quite right.

Alex Green

Lemongrass

It’s the secret twist; subtle yet distinctive. Lemongrass injects citrusy, earthy depth. If omitted, your mojito would miss out on some complex flavor notes, much like a song missing a beat.

Mary Mitkina

Club Soda

Fizzes up the mix, giving your mojito a lively personality. Without it, the cocktail is just a still life painting, when it should be a fiesta!

Emma Rose

Sliced Lime & Thai Basil Sprig for Garnish

The final flourish that's easy on the eyes and teasing to the nose. Garnishes are like signing your name on a masterpiece—skip it, and something's just not complete.

Alex Green

Recipe. How to make Thai Basil Mojito Drink

  1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the Thai basil leaves, mint leaves, and lemongrass.
  2. Add the white rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
  4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
  5. Top with club soda and gently stir.
  6. Garnish with a slice of lime and a sprig of Thai basil.

Pro Tips

  • To release the full flavor of the Thai basil and lemongrass, be sure to muddle them well in the cocktail shaker.
  • For a sweeter cocktail, you can increase the amount of simple syrup to taste.
  • To make a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum and add more club soda.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

  • Thai Cuisine: The herbal notes of the Thai basil and the freshness of mint complement Thai flavors like green curry, pad Thai, and spicy mango salad.

  • Seafood: Try this mojito with grilled prawns, fish ceviche, or a light scallop salad. The lime juice and lemongrass will enhance the delicate seafood flavors.

  • Light Appetizers: Fresh spring rolls, chicken satay, or tofu skewers are perfect with the cocktail's refreshing taste.

Drink Pairings

  • Coconut Water: For a non-alcoholic refreshment, coconut water maintains the tropical vibe.

  • Iced Green Tea: Sipping on some slightly bitter green tea between sips of the sweet and herbal mojito can cleanse the palate.

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What you could change in Thai Basil Mojito

  • If Thai basil is not available, you can use regular basil and add a pinch of ground star anise for a similar flavor profile.
  • If lemongrass is not available, you can use a few drops of lemongrass essential oil or a teaspoon of grated lemon zest.

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And of course - twists🍹

Cucumber Thai Basil Mojito

Add slices of cucumber when muddling the herbs for a cool, spa-like twist. This version will be even more refreshing and pairs wonderfully with light summer salads.

Ingredients: Just add 3-4 slices of cucumber to the original recipe.

Spicy Ginger Thai Basil Mojito

A slice or two of ginger can bring a bit of heat to your drink. Perfect if you fancy something a bit more fiery, pairing excellently with bolder flavors like barbecued meats.

Ingredients: Add 1-2 thin slices of fresh ginger in the muddling step.

Lychee Thai Basil Mojito

Lychee syrup can replace the simple syrup for an exotic, fruity note. It's like a tropical vacation in a glass, pairing beautifully with desserts or as a standalone treat.

Ingredients: Substitute simple syrup with 0.5 oz of lychee syrup.

For all twists, follow the original recipe's method while incorporating the new ingredients.

In case you forgot basics how to make Thai Basil Mojito

The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.

Learn everything about simple syrup

Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.

Learn everything on how to shake

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

The key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.

Learn everything on how to muddle

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Thai Basil Mojito

What is the origin of the Mojito?

The Mojito is a traditional Cuban drink. Its origin dates back to the 16th century, when Sir Francis Drake landed in Havana, the capital of Cuba.

Are there other types of Mojitos besides the Thai Basil Mojito?

Absolutely, there are various spin-offs of the original Cuban Mojito. Some of the popular ones include Coconut Mojito, Berry Mojito, Pineapple Mojito, Watermelon Mojito, and even a Virgin Mojito (non-alcoholic). The options and flavors are endless!

Is the Thai Basil Mojito a suitable drink for vegan or vegetarians?

Yes, the Thai Basil Mojito is suitable for both vegan and vegetarians since it only contains plant-based ingredients and alcohol.

What is the best time to serve Thai Basil Mojitos?

Thai Basil Mojitos can be enjoyed anytime. However, they are especially refreshing on a hot summer day, at beach parties, or during a BBQ dinner.

Can I use other types of rum for this cocktail?

White rum is traditionally used for Mojitos, including the Thai Basil Mojito. However, you can experiment with dark rum or flavored rums for a unique twist. Just note that this could alter the overall taste and color of your cocktail.

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