Have you ever dreamed of having an amazing home bar, filled with bottles you actually use and the tools you need to execute a fine crafted cocktail? Enter the Home Bar Project. Through this series we are going to take this challenge piece by piece. We’ll teach you the proper techniques and make sure the spirits you purchase aren’t collecting dust on your back bar.

About the instructor:
Dan Lan Hamm is a craft bartender at 1 Tippling Place in Philadelphia. He was Pennsylvania's winner of Bombay Sapphire and GQ's Most Imaginative Bartender Competition in 2014. He runs Spirit Forward, a cocktail-centric group which caters local events and provides educational workshops.

This week: How to Make a Mojito

It is rumored that the name “Mojito” stems from the African word “Mojo” or to place a little spell, and, like the daiquiri, it was also invented in Cuba. This charming drink is bright, tart and refreshing. When made properly, you shouldn’t have to fish through torn up mint leaves and floating lime pieces to enjoy it. The key to a great mojito is simplicity. It should be as easy to make as it is to drink.

Ingredients:
Pinch of Mint
Mint Sprig
White Sugar Cube
Simple Syrup
Fresh Lime Juice
White Rum
Crushed Ice
 

Step 1 of 11:

Add large pinch of mint to shaker

Step 2 of 11:

Add 1 sugar cube

Step 3 of 11:

Add 1 oz lime

Step 4 of 11:

Muddle ingredients into a paste

Tip: The granular consistency of the sugar cube will help release flavor from the mint leaves.

Step 5 of 11:

Add 3/4 oz simple syrup

Step 6 of 11:

Add 2 oz white rum

Step 7 of 11:

Dump into rocks glass

Tip: If you give your tin a good swirl before dumping, it helps make sure no mint leaves are left behind.

Step 8 of 11:

Fill rocks glass completely with crushed ice.

Step 9 of 11:

Swizzle ingredients

Tip: 3 to 5 seconds should be just fine. Your goal is to settle the ice and make room for more.

Step 10 of 11:

Top glass off with more crushed ice.

Step 11 of 11:

Wake mint sprigs on back of hand

Tip: This allows for maximum aroma while sipping the cocktail.

Garnish and enjoy!

Photos by The Drink Nation