The mojito was born in Cuba. The mint was everywhere. They called it yerba buena (good herb). It was used for medicine, then for rum. Coincidence? I think not.
Ernest Hemingway loved mojitos. He apparently drank them at La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana. He was a grumpy genius who knew good mint. If Hemingway approved, you should too.
There’s a rumor that original mojitos used a wild mint called Mentha x villosa. It’s fuzzy and rare. But today, you’ll rarely find it. Spearmint is the practical, delicious heir.
The Final Sip
So next time you order a mojito, ask what mint they use. If they say “spearmint,” high-five them. If they say “peppermint,” run. If they say “we have a mojito mint blend,” nod wisely.
Remember: sweet spearmint, gentle muddling, and a good slap. That’s the magic triangle. You are now an official mojito mint expert. Use your powers for good.
Now go make a mojito. Clink your glass. Thank the mint. It’s a simple leaf, but it does the heavy lifting. Cheers to the humble, glorious, irreplaceable Mentha spicata.
