Happy Birthday America!!!
You are looking pretty good for being 239 years old. I’ll have to get the secret to how you stay looking so good for an old lady. I was feeling pretty patriotic lately and especially feeling the blueberries (see blueberry shortcakes). I was so excited about blueberries. I was instantly inspired to make a blueberry simple syrup and immediately knew that some sort of blue (er purple) cocktail was in my future. I probably should have thought harder about making a more American sounding cocktail but you know what…a cocktail is a cocktail!
The 4th of July has always had an impact on me. I think it might have something to do with the whole poetry of Thomas Jefferson being behind The Declaration of Independence and then passing away on the 4th of July 50 years later. Isn’t that so interesting?! As a Wahoo that might jut be a sign of my bias.
There is the that whole narrative of how we became a country and an even stronger reminder that we are so young compared to all of those other countries out there. 239 years… that is nothing! When you travel the world you can usually stumble upon a landmark or work of art that has been on this planet for thousands of years. We haven’t even hit 500!
We might be young but it is clear that we are feisty and strong. I like that about us. I want to toast to that! I want to toast to the next 239 years and even though I wont be here to see them happen (that would be wild!!), I have no doubt that they are going to be pretty amazing. Especially, since the last 238 were quite something themselves.
Here is to you America! Happy Birthday you beautiful girl!
Notes
Muddlers range in price and style. No need to break the bank so get one that makes sense for your budget. If you don't have one you can use a fork but be careful not to do too much damage to the mint leaves when mashing them up.
Ingredients
- 1 oz. Blueberry Simple Syrup (see below)
- 1 Tbsp. Fresh Blueberries + a few for garnishing
- 1 1/2 Oz. Light Rum
- 4-5 Mint Leaves + stem for garnish
- 1 Tsp. Sugar
- Club Soda
- Ice
- Muddler
For the Blueberry Simple Syrup
- 1 Cup Water
- 1 Cup Sugar
- 1 Cup Fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions
- For Simple Syrup: Add water and sugar to a small saucepan. Heat until the water comes to a boil and the sugar dissolves completely (about 3 minutes). Remove water/sugar mixture from heat. Place blueberries in a heat proof bowl. If using frozen berries make sure to let them thaw slightly before using. Gently mash blueberries with a fork. Pour syrup over blueberries and cover bowl with plastic wrap. Allow blueberries to steep in syrup for 20 minutes. Strain syrup to remove the blueberry flesh. Store in a container in the fridge until ready for use.
- Assemble Mojito: Add mint leaves, blueberries and sugar to a glass. Using a muddler gently muddle (smash) everything together. The mint leaves should break up a bit but you do not need want to over muddle or mash them. Add 1 oz of simple syrup followed by the rum. Add ice and club soda. Stir to combine all ingredients. Garnish with a few blueberries and mint. Enjoy!
Refreshing drink for the 4th and the remainder of the summer.