Pineapple Mojitos

Steps

1. 1TO MAKE PINEAPPLE MOJITOS: Place the lime wedges, pineapple chunks, and mint in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle and then fill the shaker with ice. Add the rum and pineapple puree and shake until icy cold and frosted, about 30 seconds. (Here’s a tip for shaking mixed drinks: wrap the shaker in a dishtowel while you shake it to prevent your hands from freezing while it chills your drink.)Do not strain; pour into (1) highball glass or (2) lowball glasses. Top with club soda, adjust the amount to taste. Garnish with mint leaves and a lime wedge.
2. 2TO MAKE PINEAPPLE MINT PUREE:Combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar dissolves. This should only take a couple minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the fresh mint. Let the syrup sit until it cools.While the syrup is cooling, place the pineapple chunks in a blender and puree until smooth, about 2 minutes. Pour the cooled syrup into the blender and pulse a couple times to combine. Pour the pineapple puree into a jar and chill until ready to use. This can be made in advance and will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
3. 3TO MAKE (NON-ALCOHOLIC) PINEAPPLE MOJITOS:Muddle the pineapple, lime, and mint in the bottom of a tall glass. Add the pineapple puree and the club soda. Stir to combine. Taste and add a splash of the reserved pineapple juice to sweeten as needed. Garnish with mint leaves and a lime wedge, if desired.