Apparently, in America, it’s possible to go to the Chinese Restaurant chain, P.F. Changs, and shell out $8.50 for a drink called the “Asian Pear Mojito.” After searching through the alleged ingredients, one is hard-pressed to find any pears at all. It’s full of froo froo liqueurs and refined sugar.

Genuine ingredients

But if you want to really rev up your mojito mojo, why not impress your guests with a real Asian pear twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. Here’s an update on the traditional mojito with real Asian pears put through the juicer. And to support the flavor of the pear and get the sweetness just right — apples.

Does juicing really make a better cocktail?

The mojito is the embodiment of a traditional recipe grown up from local, available ingredients. It’s agriculturally sensitive to the land of Cuba — sugar cane, rum, mint. The Asian pear is hearty in a variety of areas around the USA and abroad. Apples and Asian pears add a fresher, more local twist of flavor.

While the commercial Asian Pear Mojito may suit certain tastes, its approach betrays the original spirit of the drink. Fresh ingredients, and fresh juice especially, will restore the agricultural spirit to the drink. ¡Salud!

Asian Pear Mojito (2 glasses)

Juice the following

• 1 Asian pear
• 2 small apples (the kind that fit in whole)
• 1½ limes, peeled

For Each Glass

• 3 fresh mint sprigs
• 1½ ounces light rum
• piece of sugar cane taller than the glass (if available)
• club soda

Instructions

1. In a tall slender glass, crush part of the mint with a fork or muddler or sugar cane (best) to coat the inside.
2. Add the sugar and lime juice and stir thoroughly. Top with ice.
3. Add rum and mix. Top off with *chilled* club soda (or seltzer).
4. Add a lime slice and the remaining mint, and serve.