Peach Mojitos

Confession: I’m not a very good… uh… cocktail-maker, mixologist, bar…. men? I just don’t really have a nack for it, and in the past I’ve had a few disastrous experiences trying to make my own cocktails.

I think part of it is due to the fact that I am, by nature, a wine drinker. I mean, if you don’t like cake how can you reasonably expect to be a naturally good baker? It just doesn’t add it. But I like cocktails, and I really like the idea of being one of those hostesses who can have a few folks drop by on a whim and just wow them with her perfectly clean house, amazing (in quantity and taste) through-together-at-the-last-minute food, and cocktails that make them swoon.

I feel fairly comfortable I can currently accomplish maybe one of those above things… I’ll let you decide which one.

These peach mojitos turned out very very good! My sister is a mojito freak and she approved, so that’s saying something. And here’s what I think the secret is: simple syrup.

I know, it’s sort of pain because it’s a total make-ahead, but it really makes a huge difference. It allows the sugar to magically dissolve into the entire drink, not just the bottom layer or… ahem… at all. It’s worth the trouble, turns out. And it’s really VERY simple to make and can be saved in the refrigerator for days and days. So, yes you have to go the trouble to plan a little, but that’s really not so bad when the result could be a whole week of awesome homemade cocktails.

Peach Mojitos, makes 8-10

Needed: 6 cups frozen (and thawed) peaches, 2 teaspoons lime zest, juice of 8 limes, 1 cup simple syrup*, 2/3 cup packed and chopped mint leaves, 3 cups white rum (I used pineapple run), 7 cups club soda, lots of ice and a few mint springs for garnish.

In a blender combine the peaches, lime zest and lime juice. Puree. In a big pitcher combine the remaining ingredients (except ice and the garnish springs) let that chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour before serving. Pour over lots of ice and serve.

*To make simple syrup combine equal parts water and sugar and simmer until well combined and it thickens. I used 1/2 cup water to 1/2 cup sugar for this recipe.

And remember to drink responsibly. xo. Emma