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.

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

• Save

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.