Thai Ginger Mojito Recipe

Combine and simmer

In a small saucepan combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, 4 oz sliced ginger, 1 bruised lemongrass stalk, and 2 kaffir lime leaves (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Lower heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes to infuse the ginger and lemongrass. Taste and steep longer (up to 20 minutes) for stronger ginger flavor.

Remove from heat and let the syrup cool with the solids steeping for another 15–30 minutes for deeper flavor.

Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container, pressing the solids to extract liquid. Discard solids. Cool completely before using. Refrigerate up to 2 weeks.

Place 10 fresh mint leaves and 6 Thai basil leaves in the bottom of a highball glass or Collins glass. Add the light bruised lemongrass stalk (tuck it in so it won’t poke through the straw) and 1 oz fresh lime juice.

Add 0.75 oz Thai ginger syrup and, if desired, 0.25 oz simple syrup only if you prefer sweeter cocktails (omit if syrup is sweet enough).

Gently muddle the herbs, lemongrass, lime juice and syrups 6–8 times using a muddler or the back of a spoon — press just enough to release oils and aroma but avoid pulverizing the mint which can make the drink bitter.

Add 2 oz white rum into the glass, then fill the glass about three-quarters with crushed ice (approximately 1 cup).

Give the mixture a firm but brief stir (about 4–6 seconds) to integrate the rum with the muddled herbs and syrup.

Top with 2 oz club soda or sparkling water, and gently lift and fold once to mix. Taste and adjust: add a splash more syrup if you want it sweeter or a squeeze more lime for brightness.

Add a final handful of crushed ice to mound on top if desired.

Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge, a sprig of mint placed over the top, and a thin slice of fresh ginger tucked into the mint. Optionally, slap a small mint sprig between your palms before garnishing to awaken the aromas.

Serve with a straw and stirrer. Encourage sipping slowly to enjoy the layered ginger, citrus and herb flavors.