### Blended Cherry Mojito Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Drink
Looking to whip up a unique, refreshing drink that combines the zesty freshness of a mojito with the sweet burst of cherries? Follow our detailed steps to create a delicious blended cherry mojito that's perfect for summer gatherings. This recipe is not only easy but also packed with flavor.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves (or more if you like it)
- 3 tablespoons white sugar (adjust according to your taste preference)
- 2 cups ice
- 4 ounces light rum (or use a lighter version for non-alcoholic options)
- 8 ounces soda water
- Juice of one lime
- Lime wedges and additional cherries, for garnish
#### Equipment:
- Blender
- Tall glasses
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Strainer
- Ladle (optional)
### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Preparation:**
- Begin by washing the fresh mint leaves under cold water to remove any dirt and debris.
- If using frozen cherries, rinse them briefly in cool water.
2. **Blending:**
- Place the washed mint leaves into your blender.
- Add the sugar over the mint leaves; this helps in extracting more flavor from both ingredients.
- Pour the fresh or frozen cherries on top of the sugar and mint.
- Pour in 1 cup of ice to keep the drink cold.
3. **Infusing Flavor:**
- Blend the mixture for about 20-30 seconds, or until you get a smooth consistency with bits of cherry flesh. For a less pureed version, blend for just 15 seconds.
- Add the lime juice during this step to enhance the citrus flavor.
4. **Adding Alcohol:**
- Pour in the light rum (or your non-alcoholic alternative) over the blended mixture and blend again briefly for about 5-10 more seconds.
5. **Chilling & Straining:**
- Transfer the blended mixture into a large pitcher to chill it thoroughly.
- Once chilled, strain out the solids using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into tall glasses filled with ice.
6. **Filling & Garnishing:**
- Top up each glass with soda water to add fizz and carbonation.
- Add a few more cherry slices and a lime wedge on top for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately while the drink is cold and refreshing.
### Tips for Perfect Blended Cherry Mojitos:
- **Use Fresh Ingredients:** For maximum taste, use fresh cherries and mint leaves. Frozen cherries work well too but may need less sugar.
- **Adjust the Sugar Level:** Taste your mixture before straining to ensure you have the right balance of sweet and tart.
- **Customize with Variations:** Feel free to experiment by adding a splash of grenadine or a hint of vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost.
Enjoy this unique blend of refreshing cherry mojito, perfect for any summer soiree or casual get-together. Share the recipe widely to spread joy and deliciousness among friends!