There’s something magical in the air on Kaua‘i in July: mango season is in full swing. Everywhere you look, trees bow under the weight of sun-ripened fruit, their golden flesh perfuming the breeze with tropical sweetness. Even with all this abundance at your fingertips, you don’t need to live on an island to feel like you’re here, just a handful of simple ingredients can transport you straight to the Garden Isle. Picture yourself on a warm evening, the sky blushing pink, palm fronds swaying above. In your hand, a tall Mango Mojito, vibrant mango swirling with zesty lime, bright mint, crisp Kōloa White Rum, and lively soda bubbles. Each sip feels like a mini-vacation, a celebration of island flavors distilled into one perfectly balanced cocktail.
Mango Puree: Fresh vs. Bottled
Fresh Mango Puree
Peel and cube 1 perfectly ripe mango (about ½ cup). Blend until smooth.
| Tip: For ultra-silky puree, press through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any fibers.
Store-Bought Mango Juice
Look for 100% mango juice, no added sugars-for a quick swap. Use ½ cup in place of puree and skip or cut sugar by ½ tsp if it’s sweetened.
Where to Find 100% Mango Juice
Goya Mango Nectar and Jumex Mango Nectar: In the juice aisle or Latin foods section of major supermarkets.
Ceres 100% Mango Juice: At natural-foods grocers like Whole Foods or Down to Earth.
R.W. Knudsen Just Mango and Lakewood Pure Mango: In the organic or cold-pressed juice section of specialty stores or online via Amazon and Thrive Market.
| Tip: Chill your juice well for an extra-cold cocktail from the first pour.
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