Mojitos

Serves 6

To muddle the mint mixture, use a wooden spoon in an aggressive up-and-down motion. Muddling should dissolve the sugar and bruise the mint.

2	cups loosely packed fresh mint leaves
	Juice of 2 medium limes
1/2	cup sugar
1	cup ice cubes
9	ounces white rum
2	cups soda water

1. In a small pitcher combine the mint, lime juice, sugar, and about 1 cup ice cubes. Using a wooden spoon, work the mixture about 3 minutes or until the mint is bruised and aromatic and the sugar is melted.

2. Add the rum and soda water. Divide among 6 ice-filled glasses. Keri Fisher