The Vietnamese Mojito is a vibrant twist on the classic cocktail, blending the refreshing flavors of Southeast Asia with the beloved mojito base. This exotic drink features perilla and mint leaves, fresh lime juice, smooth rum, and a homemade ginger and lemongrass syrup.
Topped with a splash of soda water, the Vietnamese Mojito offers a unique and invigorating taste experience that is both familiar and delightfully new.
Tasting Notes
The first sip of the Vietnamese Mojito greets you with a bright, citrusy burst from the lime juice, perfectly balanced by the cooling freshness of mint and the slightly herbal notes of perilla leaves. As the drink settles on your palate, the smoothness of the rum becomes more pronounced, harmonizing beautifully with the tangy lime. The homemade ginger and lemongrass syrup introduces a subtle yet captivating layer of spicy warmth and aromatic sweetness, elevating the overall complexity of the cocktail.
In the finish, the effervescence of soda water lightens the drink, leaving a crisp and clean aftertaste. The interplay of ginger and lemongrass lingers subtly, providing a pleasant, exotic twist that sets this mojito apart from its traditional counterpart. Each component works in concert, creating a refreshing and sophisticated cocktail that is perfect for warm weather and adventurous palates.
Tips & Tricks
Infuse the rum with additional flavors like kaffir lime leaves or star anise for a deeper, more aromatic profile.
Replace the soda water with coconut water for a tropical twist that enhances the drink’s refreshing qualities while adding a hint of natural sweetness.
Recipe Card
Vietnamese Mojito
Ingredients
- 2 perilla leaves
- 5-6 mint leaves
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 1.5 oz rum
- 1 oz ginger and lemongrass syrup
- soda water to top
Instructions
- In a shaker add mint and perilla leaves, muddle them very well.
- Add ice, lime juice, rum, and syrup.
- Shake very well to chill and combine.
- Strain into tall glass over fresh ice, stir to combine.
- Top with soda, stir again to combine.
- Garnish with fresh mint and serve.
