Cuba Libre

Cuba Libre Recipe: A Refreshing Cocktail with Dark Rum and Lime

Region / culture: Cuba | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1

Introduction

Cuba Libre is a classic cocktail that originated in Cuba and has become popular all over the world. This refreshing drink is made with dark rum, cola, and a splash of citrus, making it the perfect beverage for a hot summer day.

History

The Cuba Libre cocktail was created in the early 20th century in Havana, Cuba. Legend has it that the drink was first mixed by American soldiers during the Spanish-American War, who combined rum, cola, and lime to celebrate Cuba's independence. The name "Cuba Libre" means "Free Cuba" in Spanish, and the cocktail has since become a symbol of Cuba's fight for freedom.

Ingredients

2 oz (57 g) of dark rum
Cola
lime or lemon wedge
ice

How to prepare

Pour the rum over the ice cubes in a collins glass. Fill the glass with cola and squeeze a lime or lemon wedge into the drink. Drop the wedge into the glass.

Variations

Try using spiced rum or flavored cola for a different twist on the classic recipe.
Add a splash of grenadine for a sweeter version of the drink.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a good quality dark rum for the best flavor in your Cuba Libre.

- Squeeze the citrus wedge into the drink before dropping it in to release the oils and enhance the flavor.

- Serve the Cuba Libre over plenty of ice for a refreshing and chilled beverage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cuba Libre with a slice of lime or lemon on the rim of the glass for a decorative touch.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a great Cuba Libre is to use high-quality ingredients and to mix the drink well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have dark rum on hand, you can use light rum or even whiskey as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can pre-mix a large batch of Cuba Libre and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just add ice and citrus wedges when serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve your Cuba Libre in a tall glass with plenty of ice and a colorful straw for a festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Cuba Libre pairs well with spicy foods like jerk chicken or Mexican cuisine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Cuba Libre is best enjoyed fresh and should not be stored for long periods of time.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A typical serving of Cuba Libre contains around 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in a Cuba Libre come from the cola, which typically contains around 39 grams of carbs per serving.

Fats

There are no fats in a traditional Cuba Libre cocktail.

Proteins

There are no proteins in a traditional Cuba Libre cocktail.

Vitamins and minerals

The lime or lemon wedge in a Cuba Libre provides a small amount of vitamin C.

Alergens

There are no common allergens in a traditional Cuba Libre cocktail.

Summary

Overall, a Cuba Libre is a relatively low-calorie cocktail with a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the cola.

Summary

Cuba Libre is a classic cocktail with a rich history and a refreshing flavor. Enjoy this drink on a hot summer day for a taste of Cuba's independence and spirit.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in Havana, Cuba. I remember it like it was yesterday, the warm tropical breeze, the sound of salsa music playing in the background, and the smell of delicious food wafting through the air.

I was visiting my Aunt Maria, who was a renowned chef in Havana. She had traveled all over the world, learning different cooking techniques and recipes from various cultures. On that particular day, she was making a special cocktail called a Cuba Libre. I watched in awe as she expertly mixed rum, cola, and lime juice together, creating a refreshing and delicious drink.

I begged Aunt Maria to teach me the recipe, and she smiled and agreed. She handed me a glass and showed me how to measure out the ingredients, explaining the importance of balance and precision in cocktail-making. As I took my first sip of the Cuba Libre, I knew that this drink would become a staple in my repertoire of recipes.

Over the years, I perfected the art of making Cuba Libres, experimenting with different types of rum and cola to find the perfect combination. I shared the recipe with my friends and family, who all loved the refreshing taste of the cocktail. It became a signature drink at all of my parties and gatherings, a symbol of my Cuban heritage and love for good food and drink.

As I grew older, I continued to refine my recipe for Cuba Libre, adding my own personal touch to make it truly unique. I passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, who have all become expert mixologists in their own right. The tradition lives on, with each generation adding their own twist to the classic cocktail.

I often think back to that day in Aunt Maria's kitchen, watching her mix the ingredients with such skill and precision. It was a moment that changed my life, sparking a passion for cooking and a love for sharing delicious recipes with those I care about. The Cuba Libre will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of my Cuban roots and the joy of creating and sharing good food and drink with others.

And so, I raise my glass to Aunt Maria, who showed me the way to the perfect Cuba Libre. May her spirit live on in every sip of this delicious cocktail, connecting me to my past and inspiring me to continue creating and sharing recipes for years to come. Salud!