How to Make a Refreshing Mint and Lime Oil for Cocktails

Looking to elevate your cocktail game with a burst of vibrant flavor and a touch of elegance? This mint and lime oil is your new secret weapon. It’s fresh, citrusy, and perfect as a finishing touch on cocktails, mocktails, or even plated desserts. Here’s how to make it from scratch in just a few easy steps.

Ingredients

  • 85 grams fresh mint leaves

  • 5 grams lime zest

  • 125 grams MCT coconut oil (or any neutral oil like grapeseed or sunflower)

Instructions

  1. Blanch the Mint (Preserve the Color):
    Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the mint leaves and blanch for 20 seconds—this locks in their bright green color.

  2. Shock in an Ice Bath:
    Immediately transfer the mint into a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. This helps retain freshness and vibrancy.

  3. Dry Thoroughly:
    Remove the mint from the ice bath and pat it completely dry with a clean kitchen towel. The drier, the better—this ensures the oil emulsifies smoothly.

  4. Weigh & Combine:
    Measure out 85 grams of the blanched mint and add 5 grams of finely grated lime zest. This ratio keeps the citrus note crisp without overpowering the mint.

  5. Blend Smooth:
    Place the mint, lime zest, and 125 grams of your chosen oil into a high-powered blender. Blend on high until the mixture is silky and deep green.

  6. Strain for Clarity:
    Pour the blended mixture through a nut milk bag, fine mesh strainer, or double layer of cheesecloth. For extra extraction, gently press the solids with a lemon juicer or back of a spoon—avoid squeezing too hard to keep the oil clean, not cloudy.

  7. Bottle & Store:
    Transfer the filtered oil into a clean glass bottle or jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Shake gently before each use.

How to Use

  • Drizzle a few drops on the foam of a gin sour or mojito for a vibrant aromatic hit

  • Float on top of clarified cocktails for visual drama

  • Brush onto glass rims or garnish leaves for an extra sensory layer

This mint and lime oil is simple to make, visually stunning, and bursting with garden-fresh flavor. Whether you're hosting a cocktail class or serving guests at your bar, it’s a detail that speaks volumes.

Cheers to flavor with flair.

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