Watermelon Mojitos

30 large fresh mint leaves, coursely torn by hand
3 or 4 thick slices of seedless watermelon
12 ozs light rum
1/2 cup simple syrup
6 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, about 3 limes
mint sprigs and watermelon spears for garnish

Use a mortal and pestile to mash the mint leaves. Remove and discard the rind and the seeds of the watermelon. Put the watermelon into a food processor and puree. (This made a huge mess, so I switched to a blender)
Put the mashed mint into a large pitcher with 2 cups of pureed watermelon, the rum, simple syrup and lime juice. and stir to combine.
Place ice cubes in 6 glasses and pour the mojito mixture into the glasses. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs and watermelon spears . Serve ice cold. Makes 6 drinks.

Simple Syrup
To make simple syrup, put 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water in a small pan and simmer until the sugar dissolves. Chill.