If you like a mojito, you are so going to love this pomegranate version, which adds a delicious flavour dimension to the lime and mint.

I love this cocktail because it’s not that sweet and is so easy to make. It’s literally a case of banging all the ingredients into a glass and giving them a good muddle and stir.

Leave the rum out to make this a mocktail. It’s equally, if not more delicious.

Gather all your ingredients and muddle each one in a glass.

1. Sweetener Variations

Here are a few alternatives to sugar if you want to sweeten your drink:

Honey syrup (1:1 honey and warm water) – adds floral depth
Agave nectar – subtle and low GI
Maple syrup – richer, earthier note
Coconut sugar syrup – a touch of caramel flavour
Stevia or erythritol – sugar-free options

2. Mixer Variations

Replace or enhance soda water for a twist:

Sparkling lemonade – citrusy lift
Tonic water – a slightly bitter contrast
Ginger beer – for a warm, spicy edge
Flavoured sparkling water (e.g. lime, berry) – adds subtle complexity

3. Garnish Options

Boost the presentation and overall appeal with these garnish ideas :

Fresh pomegranate arils – add texture and colour
Charred lime wheels – smoky citrus edge
Edible flowers, like violas or borage
Frozen berries – keep them cold and pretty

I know we are heading towards winter in Cape Town, but who doesn’t mind a refreshing drink at any time of the year? Pomegranates are in season at the moment (March to May), so it’s a good time to consider ways to turn this delicious fruit into tasty things. I’m rather a fan it has to be said, and these are a few of my favourite recipes with pomegranates:

PS ~if you don’t want to look like you’ve been attacked by a wild animal after de-seeding and juicing a pomegranate, then click on the first two links for details

I also decided to make a little video to show you all how easy it’s done.

Prep Time:10

Ingredients

1/2 a lime cut into 4 wedges
small handful of mint leaves plus a sprig to garnish
1 teaspoon sugar add more if you like it sweeter
1/4 cup 60 ml freshly squeezed pomegranate juice
45 – 60 ml white rum or depending on how strong you want it
2 Tbsp pomegranate seeds
soda water to top up
about a cup of ice
a lime wedge to garnish

Instructions

Put the lime, mint and sugar into a tall glass and muddle to release the juice and the flavour from the leaves.
Add the pomegranate juice, seeds & rum, and then add the ice. Stir.
Top the glass to the rim with soda water and stir again.
Garnish with a wedge of lime and a sprig of mint