Craving a refreshing taste of the high seas? Look no further than this delightful Ting Mojito recipe, a signature cocktail from Carnival Cruise Line’s beloved Red Frog Pub. This vibrant drink instantly transports you to a sun-drenched deck, with its perfect balance of tangy grapefruit, zesty lime, and cooling mint. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or dreaming of your next getaway, mastering this simple recipe allows you to bring the joyful, laid-back atmosphere of the Red Frog Pub right into your home. Prepare to mix up more than just a drink; you’re crafting a memory, a mini-vacation in a glass, that’s sure to impress and refresh.
Experience Carnival’s Signature Ting Mojito at Home
The Red Frog Pub is a true gem aboard Carnival Cruise Ships, a Caribbean-inspired oasis where good times and great drinks flow freely. It’s more than just a bar; it’s a destination within a destination, renowned for its casual atmosphere, live music, and uniquely crafted cocktails. Among its stellar menu, the Ting Mojito stands out as a fan favorite, offering a crisp, citrusy escape. We’ve previously delved into the sophisticated concoctions from Carnival’s Alchemy Bar, but today, we’re shifting our focus to the spirited, fun-loving vibe of the Red Frog Pub with a recipe that encapsulates its charm.
There’s something incredibly special about spending an evening at the Red Frog Pub. Imagine lounging in comfortable chairs, listening to upbeat live music, and sipping on a perfectly blended cocktail. We’ve cherished many such evenings, from tropical cruises to even enjoying the warm, inviting ambiance while sailing past the majestic glaciers and breathtaking scenery of Alaska on the Carnival Miracle. The pub’s bright and cheerful decor makes it an ideal spot for relaxation, catching up with friends, or even, dare I say, getting a bit of work done!
Our last cruise adventure was unforgettable, and it already has us planning our next Carnival journey. The anticipation of exploring new ships, discovering fresh culinary delights, and sampling innovative cocktails, perhaps even on the exciting Carnival Mardi Gras, is exhilarating. For those who love to fully immerse themselves in the beverage experience, investing in the Cheers Package is a fantastic way to explore the vast array of drink options available onboard. It’s the perfect excuse to try every new cocktail on the menu!
Every Carnival ship holds its own unique charm and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. While we certainly have our favorite spots, like the lively Red Frog Pub, the joy of cruising often lies in uncovering new experiences on each voyage. Until our next seafaring adventure, we’re content to recreate those cherished cruise memories and favorite cocktails right in our own kitchens. So, let’s dive into crafting a taste of the Caribbean with this exceptional Ting Mojito.
Key Ingredients for Your Homemade Ting Mojito
Crafting the perfect Carnival Cruise Ting Mojito is surprisingly simple, requiring just a few quality ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. This recipe puts a fun, grapefruit-infused twist on the classic mojito, making it a standout choice for any occasion. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need, along with tips for selecting the best components:
- Fresh Lime Wedges: Essential for muddling, these release aromatic oils and juice, forming the zesty base of your mojito. Always opt for fresh limes; bottled juice simply doesn’t compare.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: The heart and soul of any mojito. Choose vibrant, unblemished mint leaves for the best flavor and aroma. Avoid mint that looks wilted or discolored.
- Absolut Ruby Red Vodka: This grapefruit-flavored vodka is key to achieving the distinctive taste of the Ting Mojito. Its bright, citrusy notes complement the grapefruit soda beautifully. If you can’t find Absolut Ruby Red, any high-quality grapefruit-flavored vodka will work as an excellent substitute.
- Grapefruit Juice: Adds an extra layer of authentic grapefruit flavor and a touch of tartness. Freshly squeezed is always best, but a good quality unsweetened grapefruit juice can also be used.
- Fresh Lime Juice: A splash of fresh lime juice amplifies the citrus profile and brightens the drink. Again, fresh is non-negotiable for a truly superior mojito.
- Simple Syrup: This liquid sweetener balances the tartness of the citrus. You can easily make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar in hot water, then letting it cool. This allows for precise sweetness control.
- Ting Soda: The star ingredient that gives this mojito its unique name and Caribbean flair. Ting is a Jamaican grapefruit soda, famous for its crisp, natural grapefruit flavor and subtle sweetness, derived from cane sugar. It provides the essential effervescence and a distinctive tropical kick.
Garnish: Elevate your presentation with a fresh lemon wedge or a delicate lime peel, a sprig of mint leaves, and a fun swizzle stick. These not only make the drink look appealing but also add to the overall sensory experience.
What is Ting Soda?
Ting Soda is not just any grapefruit soda; it’s an authentic taste of the Caribbean. Hailing from Jamaica, this sparkling beverage is made with real Caribbean grapefruits and sweetened with natural cane sugar. Its natural, refreshing flavor profile is less artificial and sweeter than many other grapefruit sodas, making it the perfect effervescent component for this mojito. It’s the secret ingredient that truly captures the spirit of the Red Frog Pub and the sunny islands.
Essential Equipment for Your Ting Mojito
While this recipe is straightforward, having the right tools makes the process even more enjoyable and ensures a perfectly crafted cocktail.
- Cocktail Muddler: Crucial for gently extracting the oils from the mint and juice from the lime wedges without tearing the mint, which can lead to a bitter taste.
- Hurricane Glass: While any tall glass works, a hurricane glass is traditionally used for Mojitos and other tropical cocktails. Its elegant shape not only looks festive but also helps showcase the vibrant colors and garnishes of your drink.
How to Craft Your Perfect Ting Mojito
Creating this delightful Carnival-inspired cocktail is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to mix up a Ting Mojito that tastes like a vacation:
Step 1: Muddle with Care
In the bottom of your hurricane glass, place two fresh lime wedges and 5-7 mint leaves. Using your cocktail muddler, gently press and twist the ingredients a few times. The goal is to release the aromatic oils from the mint and the juice from the lime without pulverizing them, which can lead to bitterness. You should smell a fresh burst of mint and lime.
Step 2: Build the Base
Fill the glass generously with ice cubes. This will ensure your cocktail is perfectly chilled. Next, pour in 1.5 ounces of Absolut Ruby Red Vodka, 1 ounce of grapefruit juice, and 0.75 ounces each of fresh lime juice and simple syrup. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the liquid ingredients and distribute the muddled flavors.
Step 3: The Ting Finish
Top off your drink with Ting Soda. The effervescence of the soda will gently mix with the other ingredients, creating a refreshing fizz. Avoid stirring too vigorously at this stage to preserve the carbonation.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Adorn your Ting Mojito with a fresh sprig of mint and a lemon or lime wedge. A swizzle stick adds a playful, tropical touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the taste of a Carnival Cruise!
Preparation and Storage Tips
For the freshest and most vibrant flavor, this fruity cocktail is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, especially since it contains fresh fruit juices and carbonated soda. However, if you’re planning ahead for a party or want to streamline your cocktail-making process, here are some tips:
Make Ahead + Storage: To prepare in advance, combine all the liquid ingredients (vodka, grapefruit juice, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup) into an airtight container. Store this mixture in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply muddle the mint and lime in a glass, add ice, pour in your pre-mixed base, and top with fresh Ting Soda. This method ensures your drink is fizzy and fresh when served.
Freezing/How to Freeze: For a fun, slushy twist on this mojito, blend all the cocktail ingredients (excluding the Ting Soda) with a handful of ice until smooth. You can add a splash of Ting Soda at the end for a bit of fizz if desired, or serve it as a frozen delight. These Ting Mojito Slushies are perfect for a hot summer day.
Recipe Variations for Every Preference
One of the best things about cocktails is their versatility. The Ting Mojito can be easily adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs:
Substitutions: If Absolut Ruby Red Vodka is unavailable, don’t fret! Any good quality grapefruit-flavored vodka will serve as an excellent alternative, maintaining the essential citrus profile. For a less alcoholic kick, a good quality gin could also offer an interesting botanical twist.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: This summery mojito is naturally vegetarian-friendly. For our vegan friends, it’s important to note that some Ting Soda products may not be certified vegan due to processing methods. To ensure a fully vegan cocktail, seek out a grapefruit soda clearly labeled as vegan, or opt for a homemade simple syrup (made with cane sugar) and ensure your chosen vodka is vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free Considerations: Similar to vegan concerns, some Ting Soda products might not carry a gluten-free label. For those with high sensitivity or celiac disease, always choose a grapefruit soda that is explicitly certified gluten-free to avoid any potential cross-contamination.
Alcohol-Free Option: To create a delicious mocktail version of the Ting Mojito, simply replace the Absolut Ruby Red Vodka with a non-alcoholic (NA) grapefruit-flavored spirit or a splash of extra grapefruit juice and a hint of grapefruit bitters. This allows everyone to enjoy the refreshing flavors without the alcohol.
Make It Spicy: For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding a spicy kick to your Ting Mojito. Muddle a thin slice or two of jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat) along with the lime and mint. This adds a fantastic, invigorating warmth that complements the citrus beautifully.
Larger Group/More Servings: Planning a party or a gathering? This recipe scales up effortlessly! You can easily double, triple, or even quadruple the ingredients to make a pitcher. For the best effervescence, keep the Ting Soda separate and add it to individual glasses just before serving. This ensures every guest enjoys a perfectly fizzy drink.
Sugar-Free Alternatives: The original recipe contains approximately 20 grams of sugar per serving, primarily from fruit juices, simple syrup, and Ting Soda. To reduce sugar content, replace simple syrup with a sugar-free alternative (like erythritol or stevia-based sweetener), opt for unsweetened grapefruit and lime juices, and look for a sugar-free grapefruit soda. Always check the nutritional labels of your chosen ingredients.
Expert Tips for the Best Ting Mojito
- Don’t Over-Muddle: As mentioned, gentle muddling is key. Over-muddling mint can release chlorophyll, leading to a bitter, grassy taste. Just a few presses and twists are enough.
- Use Plenty of Ice: A truly refreshing mojito is well-chilled. Fill your glass almost to the top with ice before adding liquids.
- Freshness is Paramount: There’s no substitute for fresh lime juice and mint. These ingredients make all the difference in flavor.
- Taste and Adjust: Before topping with soda, taste your mixture. You can add a little more simple syrup for sweetness or lime juice for tartness, according to your preference.
- Chill Ingredients: Using chilled vodka, juices, and Ting Soda will result in a colder, more refreshing drink from the start.
What to Serve with a Carnival Cruise Ting Mojito
This fruity Ting Mojito cocktail is designed to evoke your happiest Carnival Cruise vacation memories. To fully recreate the magic of a Carnival Cruise from home, consider pairing it with other classic cruise-inspired dishes and drinks. Imagine a perfect summer evening, tropical music playing, and a delicious meal complemented by this refreshing beverage.
Main Dishes: Nothing says Carnival like a hearty burger. The Carnival Cruise Guy’s Burger Joint Pig Patty Burger is a must-try to bring that iconic shipboard flavor to your plate. Its savory goodness is a fantastic contrast to the mojito’s bright citrus.
Desserts: No Carnival meal is complete without a decadent dessert. The Carnival Chocolate Melting Cake is legendary for a reason. Its rich, warm chocolate goo pairs surprisingly well with the crispness of the mojito, offering a luxurious end to your meal.
Other Cruise-Inspired Drinks: Expand your home bar menu with more Carnival favorites to truly capture the cruise experience. Explore popular options like the Carnival Rum Jumper, the vibrant Copy Cat Carnival Kiss on the Lips Cocktail, the creamy Copy Cat Carnival Caribbean Colada, the refreshing Copy Cat Carnival Cruise Cruiser Cocktail, the breezy Copy Cat Carnival Caribbean Breeze Cocktail, the sophisticated Carnival Cruise Alchemy Bar Cucumber Sunrise, and the always-popular Carnival Fun Ship Cocktail. Having a selection of these drinks will make your at-home cruise experience truly authentic.
When to Serve This Tropical Delight
The Ting Mojito is incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions, especially when you’re dreaming of warmer climates and fun times:
- Spring and Summer Parties: Its refreshing, citrusy notes make it an ideal drink for outdoor gatherings and BBQs.
- Luaus & Tropical Themed Events: A fantastic addition to any Polynesian or Caribbean-themed party, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
- Cocktail Night & Happy Hour: A sophisticated yet fun choice for an evening of mixing and mingling.
- Relaxing Afternoons: A great drink to enjoy by the pool or on the patio, bringing a Caribbean twist to your day.
- Celebrating National Cocktail Day: A unique and flavorful option to mark the occasion.
Expand Your Cocktail Repertoire with These Great Recipe Collections
If you’ve enjoyed crafting the Ting Mojito, you’re likely eager to explore more delicious drink recipes. Here are some fantastic collections to inspire your next concoction:
Vodka Cocktail Recipes
Vodka Shot Recipes
Carnival Cruise Drink Recipes You Can Make at Home!
35+ Summer Cocktail Recipes
55+ Easy Fruity Alcoholic Drinks
For more culinary inspiration, don’t forget to check out our copycat recipes, delectable dessert recipes, and convenient CrockPot Recipes. Follow Tammilee Tips on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for daily recipe posts and inspiration!
Ting Mojito Recipe
A delicious and refreshing Ting Mojito, inspired by Carnival Cruise Line’s Red Frog Pub.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1
Calories: 188 kcal
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 2 Lime Wedges
- 5-7 Mint Leaves
- 1.5 ounces Absolut Ruby Red Vodka
- 1 Ounce Grapefruit Juice
- .75 Ounce Fresh Lime Juice
- 0.75 Ounce Simple Syrup
- Ting Soda
Instructions
- Muddle 2 Lime Wedges and 5-7 Mint Leaves gently in a hurricane glass.
- Add ice to the glass, then pour in Absolut Ruby Red Vodka, Grapefruit Juice, Fresh Lime Juice, and Simple Syrup. Stir together briefly to combine.
- Top with Ting Soda. Garnish and serve immediately.
Kitchen Tools
- Cocktail Muddler
- Hurricane Glass
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 9
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