Tangerine Mojito Recipe | Refreshing Citrus Mint Cocktail

Tangerine Mojito Recipe – When it comes to classic summer cocktails, the mojito stands out as a refreshing favorite loved worldwide. But what if you could give it a bright, citrusy twist that takes it to a whole new level of freshness? Enter the Tangerine Mojito Recipe — a zesty and vibrant spin on the traditional Cuban cocktail that combines the sweetness of ripe tangerines with the coolness of mint and the crisp bite of white rum.

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This drink is not only eye-catching with its sunny orange hue but also incredibly flavorful. The tangerine juice adds a natural sweetness and tang that pairs beautifully with mint leaves and sparkling soda water. Each sip is a burst of sunshine — light, fizzy, and perfectly balanced

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Active Time: 10 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

• Cuisine: Cuban / Tropical Fusion

• Course: Beverage / Cocktail

• Servings: 2 glasses

• Calories: 165 kcal per serving

Equipment Needed

To make the perfect Tangerine Mojito, you’ll need:

• Cocktail muddler

• Bar spoon or stirrer

• Citrus juicer or reamer

• Jigger or measuring cup

• Highball glasses

• Ice cubes

• Knife and cutting board

• Optional: cocktail shaker

Ingredients

For 2 servings:

• ½ cup fresh tangerine juice (about 3–4 tangerines)

• 4–6 fresh mint leaves

• 2 tsp granulated sugar or simple syrup

• 2 oz white rum (such as Bacardi or Havana Club)

• ½ oz fresh lime juice

• Soda water or sparkling water, to top up

• Ice cubes (as needed)

• Tangerine slices and mint sprigs for garnish

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Glass

Start by selecting tall highball glasses. Add the fresh mint leaves and sugar (or simple syrup) to the bottom of each glass.

Step 2: Muddle the Mint

Using a muddler, gently press the mint leaves and sugar together. This releases the natural mint oils, enhancing the aroma and flavor. Be careful not to over-muddle — you just want to bruise the leaves lightly, not shred them.

Step 3: Add Citrus Flavors

Pour in the fresh tangerine juice and lime juice. The combination of these two juices creates a bright and tangy flavor base. Stir gently to mix.

Step 4: Add the Rum

Add 1 ounce of white rum to each glass. The rum complements the citrus beautifully, giving the drink a classic mojito depth.

Step 5: Add Ice and Soda

Fill each glass with ice cubes and top up with soda water or sparkling water. Stir again to mix the ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with tangerine slices, a sprig of mint, and — if you like — a rim of sugar on the glass for a fancy touch. Serve immediately while chilled and fizzy.

Tips for the Best Tangerine Mojito

1. Use Fresh Tangerines: Freshly squeezed tangerine juice tastes brighter and more aromatic than bottled versions.

2. Control Sweetness: Taste before adding extra syrup; tangerines are naturally sweet.

3. Choose Quality Rum: A light, clean-tasting white rum keeps the drink refreshing.

4. Add Sparkle: Use chilled soda or sparkling water to keep the fizz strong.

5. Cool the Glass: Pre-chill your glasses in the fridge for a few minutes before serving.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Tangerine Mojito: Add a few thin slices of jalapeño or a dash of chili powder for a spicy kick.

• Coconut Tangerine Mojito: Replace soda water with coconut water for a tropical touch.

• Frozen Tangerine Mojito: Blend all ingredients with ice to create a slushy, frozen version.

• Herbal Twist: Add basil or rosemary instead of mint for a unique herbal flavor.

• Mocktail Version: Skip the rum and add extra soda or tangerine juice for a family-friendly drink.

Serving Suggestions

The Tangerine Mojito pairs beautifully with light and summery dishes. Consider serving it with:

• Grilled shrimp or fish tacos

• Citrus salads or avocado toast

• Air-fried appetizers like calamari or fries

• Tropical desserts such as mango sorbet or coconut pudding

It’s also a perfect brunch companion — especially when served in chilled glasses with tangerine wedges and mint sprigs as garnish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tangerine Mojito Recipe is everything a summer cocktail should be — crisp, vibrant, and refreshing. The natural sweetness of tangerines eliminates the need for too much added sugar, making this a lighter, more balanced drink compared to many other cocktails.

The mint provides a cooling sensation that complements the citrus zing beautifully, while the soda adds effervescence, making every sip sparkle. Plus, the visual appeal of the orange-and-green color combination is simply irresistible.