KEY LIME Mojitos Grilled

Elevate your classic mojito with a twist! Try caramelizing sugar-crusted key limes over high heat for a unique flavor. Com pared to traditional limes, key limes have a more sour and fragrant taste. Grilling them adds a smoky and sweet caramel touch to the cocktail. To garnish the mojitos, you can use a sprig of fresh mint and a grilled key lime slice on the rim of the glass. This adds a beautiful and flavorful touch to the presentation of the drink.

Ingredients

̗ 8 key limes halved crosswise and seeded, or 4 regular limes, halved crosswise

̗ 1/2 cup sugar, plus extra as needed

̗ 12 sprigs mint, stripped, plus extra sprigs for garnish

̗ 1 cup white or dark rum

̗ 3 cups ice cubes

̗ 3 cups club soda

Instructions

1. Heat a grill to medium-high. Brush or scrape the grill grate clean and oil it well.

2. Spread the sugar in a shallow bowl. Dip the cut sides of the lime halves in the sugar and place the sugared side down on the grill grate.

3. Grill until the sugar is nicely caramelized , 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer the limes to a cutting board and let cool. Slice each lime half in half through the stem end.

4. Place the quartered limes and the mint leaves in a clear glass pitcher. Vigorously muddle the limes and mint with the end of a wooden spoon; the idea is to bruise the mint leaves and extract the juice from the limes.

5. Stir in the rum, followed by the ice cubes. Add the club soda. Stir again, then taste for sweetness. Add a tablespoon of sugar, if desired.

6. Serve chilled and garnish each cocktail with a mint sprig and lime slice. Enjoy!

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