Long Island Iced Tea
The history of the Long Island Iced Tea is shrouded in some mystery, with two main claims vying for its origin story:
The 1970s New York Claim: This story credits Robert “Rosebud” Butt, a bartender at the Oak Beach Inn on Long Island, New York, with inventing the drink in 1972. Butt claims he created it for a cocktail competition requiring the use of triple sec. His recipe included vodka, tequila, rum, gin, triple sec, and a splash of cola, resembling the classic version we know today.
The 1920s Tennessee Claim: This story takes us back to the Prohibition era (1920-1933), where resourceful individuals sought creative ways to enjoy alcoholic beverages. Here, the legend centers around “Old Man Bishop” in a community called Long Island within Kingsport, Tennessee. Bishop is said to have concocted an early version using five liquors (sometimes including whiskey) and maple syrup, later modified by his son to include cola, lemon, and lime.
Recipe Details
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Making Time: 5 minutes
Calories: Approx. 280 calories
Ingredients
1/2 oz (15 ml) vodka
1/2 oz (15 ml) rum
1/2 oz (15 ml) gin
1/2 oz (15 ml) tequila
1/2 oz (15 ml) triple sec
1 oz (30 ml) sour mix (or lemon juice)
1 splash of cola
Ice cubes
Lemon wedge or slice (for garnish)
Optional: simple syrup (to taste, depending on desired sweetness)
Step-By-Step Making Guide
Fill a Cocktail Shaker with Ice: Take a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice cubes. This will chill the ingredients and help to properly mix the drink.
Add the Spirits: Pour equal parts (1/2 oz or 15 ml each) of vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec into the cocktail shaker over the ice.
Add Sour Mix: Pour 1 oz (30 ml) of sour mix (or lemon juice) into the shaker with the other spirits. This adds the tartness to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Optional: Add Syrup: If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add simple syrup to taste at this point. Start with a small amount and adjust to your liking.
Shake Well: Secure the lid of the cocktail shaker tightly and shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This ensures that all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and chilled.
Strain into a Glass: Fill a highball glass with ice cubes. Then, using a strainer, pour the contents of the shaker into the glass, straining out the ice and leaving just the liquid.
Top with Cola: Add a splash of cola to the glass. The cola gives the drink its characteristic color and adds a hint of sweetness and effervescence.
Garnish: Garnish the drink with a lemon wedge or slice for a touch of freshness.
Serve and Enjoy: Your Long Island Iced Tea is now ready to be served! Enjoy responsibly.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon wedge: This is the classic garnish for a Long Island Iced Tea. It adds a bit of tartness and helps to balance out the sweetness of the drink.
Lime wedge: This is another option for a garnish. It adds a slightly different flavor profile than a lemon wedge.
Orange wedge: This is a fun and unexpected garnish that can add a bit of sweetness and citrus flavor to the drink.
Maraschino cherry: This is a classic garnish that adds a touch of sweetness and color to the drink.
Mint sprig: This is a refreshing garnish that can add a bit of herbal flavor to the drink.
Orange Tea Shot Recipe
Final Words
The Long Island Iced Tea, despite its misleading name, is a potent and complex cocktail packing a punch. While refreshing and popular, it’s crucial to remember its high alcohol content and consume it responsibly. Enjoy it for its unique blend of spirits and flavors
Frequently Asked Questions About Long Island Iced Tea:
Does Long Island Iced Tea actually contain tea?
No, Long Island Iced Tea does not contain any tea. The name is purely aesthetic, as the drink’s appearance resembles a glass of iced tea due to its color and the use of a highball glass.
What’s in a Long Island Iced Tea?
The classic recipe includes:
Vodka
Tequila (sometimes omitted)
Rum
Gin
Triple sec
Cola
Sour mix (sometimes replaced with fresh lemon juice)
Is Long Island Iced Tea strong?
Yes, Long Island Iced Tea is a strong cocktail due to the high alcohol content and minimal mixers. It’s important to be aware of its potency and consume it responsibly.
How is Long Island Iced Tea served?
It’s typically served in a highball glass filled with ice. It can also be served in a hurricane or collins glass. Common garnishes include lemon wedges, lime wedges, orange wedges, maraschino cherries, or mint sprigs.
Are there any variations of Long Island Iced Tea?
Yes, there are several variations on the classic recipe. Some substitutions include:
- Using fresh lemon juice instead of sour mix
- Adding iced tea instead of cola for a slightly sweeter and less carbonated drink
- Omitting tequila for a less potent version
Where did the Long Island Iced Tea originate?
The exact origin is unclear, with two main contenders:
- Robert Butt in Long Island, New York
- A similar cocktail appearing in the Long Island community of Kingsport, Tennessee
Is Long Island Iced Tea a good choice for a beginner?
Due to its high alcohol content, Long Island Iced Tea is not recommended for beginners or individuals with low alcohol tolerance. It’s crucial to understand its potential effects and prioritize responsible consumption.