Shortly after, a cocktail known as “El Draque” made with similar ingredients, became popular in Cuba.
To prepare a mojito, fresh lime juice is added to sugar and mint leaves. The mixture is then gently mashed with a muddler. The mint leaves should only be bruised to release the essential oils, but not shredded. Then rum is added and the mixture is stirred to dissolve the sugar and to lift the mint leaves up from the bottom. This creates a better presentation. Finally, the drink is topped with crushed ice and sparkling soda water. Mint leaves and lime wedges are used to garnish the glass.
This cookbook contains many different varieties of traditional and non-traditional recipes for the mojito.