Here’s a Korean twist on the classic Cuban Mojito. Traditional mojitos combine rum, lime, mint, sugar, and club soda; this version replaces mint with perilla leaves and adds fresh cucumber for a bright, refreshing fusion cocktail.
I served this drink at my first pop-up event at the Japanese-American Cultural & Community Center as a way to nod to my Cuban roots. I didn’t have enough savory courses to feature a Cuban dish, so I incorporated the influence into the cocktail pairing instead.
This is one of my favorite cocktail creations and was very popular at the pop-up—crisp, herbal, and perfectly balanced.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz light (white) rum
- 3/4 oz agave or simple syrup
- 3 perilla leaves (reserve 1 for garnish)
- 4 cucumber slices
- 1 oz club soda
What is Perilla?
Perilla (kkaennip in Korean) is a common Korean herb used both as a wrap (ssam) and as a flavorful ingredient in many dishes. It’s sometimes dried and ground into a powder for seasoning.
Like many Korean kids, I didn’t enjoy perilla at first, but over time it became my favorite herb. Its flavor is unique and a bit difficult to describe. Though often compared to shiso, I find the taste distinct. Perilla is related to the mint family and carries a strong aroma; some people notice a faint anise note, which is surprising to me since I’m not a fan of anise.
More cocktail recipes to try
- Tamarind Bourbon Smash
- Irish Whiskey Smash
- Hibiscus & Thai Basil Gimlet
- Coconut Mojito
- The BEST Margarita
Perilla Cucumber Mojito
Stella Navarro-Kim
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Ingredients
- 2 oz white rum, or tequila, vodka, or gin
- 3/4 oz agave syrup, or simple syrup
- 3 perilla leaves, 1 is for garnish
- 3 lime wedges, (about half a lime)
- 4 cucumber slices
- 1 oz club soda
Instructions
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In a shaker, combine 4 cucumber slices, 3 lime wedges, and 2 torn perilla leaves. Muddle until the cucumber and lime release their juices and the perilla releases its oils.
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Add 3/4 oz agave nectar (or simple syrup), 2 oz white rum, and ice. Shake vigorously for 5–10 seconds.
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Double strain over fresh ice into a glass, then top with 1 oz club soda and gently stir to combine.
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Garnish with the reserved perilla leaf and an extra cucumber slice if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used only as an approximation.
Additional Info
Stella Navarro-Kim
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