Long Island Ice Tea Recipe - Classic American Cocktail

Long Island Ice Tea

Long Island Ice Tea Recipe - Classic American Cocktail
Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 1 pitcher

Introduction

Long Island Ice Tea
Long Island Ice Tea

Long Island Ice Tea is a popular cocktail known for its strong and refreshing taste. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of different spirits in one glass.

History

The Long Island Ice Tea was created in the 1970s by Robert "Rosebud" Butt, a bartender at the Oak Beach Inn in Long Island, New York. Despite its name, this cocktail does not actually contain any tea. Instead, it gets its name from its resemblance to the color of iced tea.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Combine the ingredients and shake them.
  2. Add ice.

Variations

  • You can customize the Long Island Ice Tea by adding a splash of cola or lemon-lime soda for a sweeter taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making a Long Island Ice Tea, be sure to use high-quality spirits for the best flavor. It's important to shake the ingredients well to ensure that they are properly mixed. Serve the cocktail in a tall glass over ice for a refreshing drink.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Long Island Ice Tea in a tall glass over ice, garnished with a lemon wedge or mint sprig.

Cooking Techniques

Shake the ingredients well to ensure that they are properly mixed.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute different types of spirits in the Long Island Ice Tea, such as bourbon or whiskey.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients for the Long Island Ice Tea ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Long Island Ice Tea in a tall glass with a colorful straw for a fun presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

The Long Island Ice Tea pairs well with spicy foods or grilled meats.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

The Long Island Ice Tea is best served fresh and should not be stored or reheated.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Long Island Ice Tea contains approximately 280 calories.

Carbohydrates

The Long Island Ice Tea contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

There are no fats in the Long Island Ice Tea.

Proteins

There are no proteins in the Long Island Ice Tea.

Vitamins and minerals

The Long Island Ice Tea does not contain significant amounts of vitamins or minerals.

Alergens

This cocktail contains alcohol, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

The Long Island Ice Tea is a high-calorie cocktail that is best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

The Long Island Ice Tea is a classic cocktail that is perfect for those who enjoy a strong and refreshing drink. With a mix of different spirits, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I first learned to make a Long Island Ice Tea. I was visiting my dear friend Alice, who lived on Long Island, and she invited me over for a little cocktail party. As I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the refreshing scent of lemons and mint.

Alice was a master at mixing drinks, and she had a twinkle in her eye as she handed me a tall glass filled with ice and a mysterious concoction. "Try this," she said with a smile. I took a sip and was immediately taken aback by the bold flavors of the drink. It was sweet, sour, and strong all at once - a perfect balance of ingredients that danced on my tastebuds.

I asked Alice what was in the drink, and she happily shared her recipe with me. She explained that a Long Island Ice Tea was not actually tea at all, but a potent cocktail made with a mix of spirits - vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec - along with a splash of cola and fresh lemon juice. It was a drink that packed a punch, but went down smooth and easy.

I was eager to learn how to make this delicious cocktail myself, so Alice graciously invited me to stay for dinner and a lesson in mixology. As we chopped herbs and squeezed citrus fruits, she regaled me with stories of how she had acquired the recipe for the Long Island Ice Tea from a bartender friend who had learned it from a seasoned mixologist in the city.

I listened intently, soaking in every detail as she shared tips and tricks for making the perfect drink. From the importance of using top-shelf spirits to the technique of shaking the ingredients together with ice to chill and dilute the drink just right, Alice passed on her knowledge with generosity and grace.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal and sip on our Long Island Ice Teas, I marveled at how a simple drink could hold so much history and tradition. Each ingredient had a story to tell, and each sip brought me closer to understanding the art of cocktail-making.

Over the years, I have made many Long Island Ice Teas for friends and family, always with a nod to Alice and the day she shared her recipe with me. I have added my own twist to the drink, experimenting with different garnishes and variations of the original recipe.

But no matter how I dress it up, the classic Long Island Ice Tea will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the power of friendship, the joy of learning something new, and the simple pleasure of sharing a delicious drink with loved ones.

So the next time you find yourself in need of a refreshing cocktail on a hot summer day, why not give the Long Island Ice Tea a try? Just remember to pour with a generous hand and toast to the memories that come with each sip. Cheers!

Categories

| American Recipes | Gin Drink Recipes | Lemon Juice Recipes | Tequila Drink Recipes | Triple Sec Drink Recipes | Vodka Drink Recipes | White Rum Drink Recipes |

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