Muddling

When muddling, ingredients such as lime pieces, mint leaves, berries or sugar cubes are pressed in a glass or shaker with a pestle called a muddler. The aim is to release essential oils and fruit juices, not to pulverise the ingredients.

With herbs a gentle press is enough, because grinding them too hard releases bitter compounds. Classic examples are the Mojito and Caipirinha. The glass is then usually filled with ice and the remaining ingredients are added. A sturdy glass matters so that nothing breaks while pressing.