Save There's something about the first sip of a black currant mojito that transports you straight to a sun-dappled afternoon, even if you're stuck indoors. I stumbled upon this version while browsing through an old cocktail book at a friend's place, and the deep purple-black color of the black currant jam caught my eye immediately. What started as curiosity became a ritual—every summer, without fail, I'd make a batch of these for whoever wandered into my kitchen. The tartness of the currants paired with cool mint somehow felt more sophisticated than the original, yet just as easy to throw together.
I'll never forget the afternoon my neighbor tasted one of these and immediately asked for the recipe, then came back the next day with her own bottle of rum and black currant jam already purchased. We ended up making a whole pitcher together, standing in my kitchen with the windows open, mint leaves scattered across the counter, both of us laughing at how we'd never thought to do this before. That's when I realized this wasn't just a drink—it was the kind of thing that makes people want to gather around and talk for hours.
Ingredients
- Fresh mint leaves (8–10): These are the backbone of the drink, and they need to be truly fresh—pick them just before making your mojito if possible, as the oils fade quickly.
- Lime (1/2, cut into wedges): The acidity balances the jam's sweetness, so don't skimp on quality; a good lime makes all the difference between good and unforgettable.
- Black currant jam (1 tablespoon): This is your secret weapon—look for a jam that's not too thick or sweet, as it'll muddle more easily and taste more sophisticated.
- White rum (50 ml): The spirit should be clean and neutral so it doesn't fight with the other flavors; cheaper rums tend to overpower rather than enhance.
- Soda water (100 ml): Use freshly opened soda water if you can—that crisp carbonation is what makes the drink sing at the end.
- Crushed ice: Pre-crushed is fine, though I prefer to crush my own because it melts slower and keeps the drink cold longer without diluting it too quickly.
- Garnish (mint sprig, lime wheel, fresh black currants): These aren't just decoration—they signal to everyone watching that you've actually cared about what you're serving.
Instructions
- Muddle the mint and lime together:
- Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in your sturdy glass and muddle gently—and I mean gently, because aggressive muddling bruises the mint and releases bitter oils that ruin everything. You're aiming for a soft release of fragrance, not a demolition.
- Fold in the black currant jam:
- Add the jam and muddle again just enough to break it down and marry it with the mint and lime juice. This should take about 10–15 seconds of light pressure.
- Pack the glass with crushed ice:
- Fill your glass completely, pressing down gently so the ice settles into the gaps. This is what keeps your drink cold without diluting it immediately.
- Pour in the rum and stir:
- Add the rum and stir with your bar spoon for about 20 seconds, making sure all the flavors blend together smoothly. This is where the drink really comes together.
- Top with soda water and finish:
- Gently pour the soda water over the back of your spoon so it floats on top, then give everything a final gentle stir. The bubbles are what make it refreshing.
- Garnish and serve immediately:
- Add a fresh mint sprig, a lime wheel, and a few black currants if you have them, then drink while everything is still ice-cold and the carbonation is strong.
Save There was something magical about the moment my sister took her first sip of one of these and her eyes widened in surprise, then broke into a smile. She'd been skeptical about the jam at first, but that dark, tart flavor combined with the mint and rum somehow made sense in a way she hadn't anticipated. That's when I realized this drink isn't just about refreshment—it's about offering people something they didn't know they wanted.
Why Black Currant Changes Everything
Most mojitos rely on simple syrup to add sweetness, which is fine but forgettable. Black currant jam, though, brings a tartness and depth that elevates the entire experience—it's less like drinking a flavored drink and more like tasting actual fruit in sophisticated form. The jam also creates this beautiful suspension of dark purple throughout the glass, which makes the drink feel more intentional and special than a clear mojito ever could. When you're sipping something this visually striking, you can't help but slow down and actually taste what you're drinking.
Variations Worth Exploring
Once you've made this version a few times and feel confident with the technique, you can start experimenting without fear. I've tried blackberry jam for a slightly mellower version, raspberry for something more delicate, and even a combination of black currant with a touch of elderflower cordial for occasions when I wanted to show off a little. The base technique is so solid that variations feel like creative exploration rather than starting from scratch, which is exactly when cooking becomes genuinely fun.
Making It Your Own
The beauty of this cocktail is that it's simple enough to make perfectly as written, but flexible enough that you can adjust it without losing what makes it special. Some people prefer their drinks sweeter—add a splash of simple syrup—while others want more tartness and less rum. I've served it to people who wanted the mocktail version, and honestly, extra soda water and a touch more lime wedge makes it just as satisfying.
- If you're making these for a crowd, you can pre-muddle the mint and lime in larger batches, then just add jam and rum to individual glasses when needed.
- Fresh black currants as garnish are a lovely touch if you can find them, but honestly, a simple lime wheel and mint sprig look beautiful enough on their own.
- Keep your ingredients chilled and your soda water fresh—these small details make the difference between a good drink and one people actually ask for by name.
Save This drink has a way of turning an ordinary afternoon into something worth remembering, whether you're making it for yourself alone or sharing it with people you love. Every time I make one, I'm reminded that the best recipes are the ones that feel less like following instructions and more like inviting someone into a moment of genuine enjoyment.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes, simply omit the white rum and increase the soda water quantity for a delicious mocktail version.
- → What other jams work well in this drink?
Blackberry or raspberry jam make excellent substitutes, offering similar tartness and vibrant color.
- → Do I need special equipment?
A muddler helps release mint oils, but a wooden spoon handle works in a pinch. Use a sturdy highball or Collins glass.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Best served immediately while the mint is fresh and ice remains intact. Prep ingredients ahead for quicker assembly.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness?
Add simple syrup or extra jam for more sweetness. Reduce jam quantity for a tarter, less sugary version.
- → What type of rum works best?
Light or white rum provides a clean backdrop. Dark rum adds deeper molasses notes that complement the currant flavor.