Classic Cuban Mojito with Fresh Mint, Lime and Cane Sugar

Ingredients

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 2 tsp raw cane sugar or simple syrup
• 10-12 fresh mint leaves plus a sprig for garnish
• 2 oz club soda
• Crushed ice
• Lime wheel for garnish
• Pinch of flaky salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Place mint leaves and cane sugar in the bottom of a tall glass. Gently muddle 4-5 times — press and twist, don't pulverize. You want the oils released, not the leaves shredded.
2. Add fresh lime juice and stir briefly to dissolve the sugar with the mint.
3. Fill the glass generously with crushed ice.
4. Pour rum over the ice.
5. Top slowly with club soda and give one gentle stir from the bottom to lift the mint up.
6. Slap a fresh mint sprig between your palms to awaken the aroma and tuck it next to the ice.
7. Add a lime wheel on the rim and an optional pinch of flaky salt on top. Serve immediately.