Rhubarb Mojito's and Rhubarb Syrup

Rhubarb Mojitos

The most delicious, refreshing alternative to a usual Mojito. For this recipe I make my standard Mojito recipe but I replace the sugar with the Rhubarb Syrup instead. The Rhubarb Syrup is so easy to make and is so refreshing when paired with the classic Mojito flavours of Mint and Lime. Try it once and you will be begging for Rhubarb to be back in season!

Serves 1 (easily doubled or can be made into a pitcher)

Small handful of fresh mint leaves (approx. 6 large leaves, or 8-10 small ones)
2 tbsp Rhubarb Syrup (recipe below)
1/2 lime, cut into 3 wedges
1 part white rum (Bacardi)
3 parts soda water
Ice

In a tall glass mix the mint, syrup and 2 wedges of lime together using a muddler, small rolling pin, wooden spoon or any other utensil that allows you to crush everything together so you get as much flavour as possible! Add the rum then fill the glass with ice and top with the soda water. Stir and add the final lime wedge then sit back, sip and enjoy!

Rhubarb Syrup

Whenever I make a sugar syrup I always prefer to use cups rather than precise measurements as I find it so much easier. For this I use a standard American measuring cup but if you don't have one use a small cup or mug. The main thing is that you keep the sugar and water measurements the same.

This syrup is fantastic used above to make a delicious Rhubarb Mojito but it is also delicious mixed with Prosecco for a seasonal sparkling treat, or even to top some Vanilla Ice Cream with. Make a batch of this and it won't go wrong!

1 cup caster or fine sugar

1 cup water

170g/ 6oz/ 1 ¼ cups Rhubarb, finely sliced

½ vanilla pod (optional)

Put the sugar, water, rhubarb and vanilla (if using) into a medium sized pan and gently bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Once the sugar has dissolved simmer for roughly 5 minutes until the rhubarb is very tender. Remove from the heat then remove the vanilla and allow to cool completely. Strain the syrup and discard the rhubarb. Store the syrup in a container in the fridge as use as you please for a delicious treat.