4 simple ingredients, 1 perfect mocktail (part 2)
By Dana Peck
5 simple ingredients can make the perfect mocktail
Mocktails have taken over in the mixed drink scene. People have been taking the side effects of alcohol seriously since the beginning of the health and wellness movement. As a bartender, I love the mocktail movement. It's allowing people to opt out of drinking, but not feel left out when going out to have a drink with their friends. Nothing's worse than getting a soda in a plastic cup while everyone drinks beautifully mixed drinks out of a glass.
I am not a huge drinker, and I always felt just as left out when there was a backyard party where everyone was drinking, except for me. Everyone would have their solo cup full of the pitcher of mixed drinks while I was drinking out of my water bottle. Last week I started a mocktail recipe series, and I'm beyond happy to continue sharing mocktail recipes with everyone.
Crafting mocktails can seem as daunting as mixing cocktails. The key is balancing flavors to achieve the desired taste, which isn’t always straightforward. However, I’m here to offer guidance and reassurance, encouraging everyone to try their hand at creating delightful mocktails at home. This way, everyone can enjoy a special drink and feel included at your next pool party.
Mojitos are one of the most refreshing cocktails I can think of, so making one without alcohol would be perfect for a day outside in this heat. Mojitos have a really interesting backstory. They also were not originally called mojitos. If you want to learn more about the history or get a great cocktail recipe for them, an article on that is linked here.
Just like any cocktail or mocktail, there are some pieces of equipment that make it easier to make the drink. Also, the better the quality of the ingredients the better quality the drink is going to be. I recommend following the recipe the first time, but editing it to your taste the more times you try it. Everyone likes their drinks different, and that's okay! Anyway, here's the recipe. Happy mocktail making!
How to make the perfect mocktail mojito with 5 simple ingredients
Recipe:
1 oz simple syrup
5-7 mint leaves
4 lime wedges
Sparking water
Directions:
Add simple syrup, mint leaves, and lime wedges to a glass. Muddle thoroughly.
Fill glass with ice.
Add sparkling water to the top. You can use lime sparkling water for a stronger lime flavor.
Garnish with lime wedge and mint if desired.
As we wrap up, the mocktail movement is more than just a trend—it’s a celebration of inclusivity and wellness in social settings. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a home enthusiast, mocktails provide a creative outlet to enjoy the art of mixology without the alcohol. The next time you’re hosting an event, remember that a well-made mocktail can offer all the sophistication and flavor of its alcoholic counterpart, ensuring every guest leaves with a smile. Cheers to expanding your beverage repertoire and to the joys of inclusive, health-conscious entertaining!