If you’ve ever been to a party or bar, chances are you’ve encountered the iconic Long Island Iced Tea. This cocktail is known for its potent combination of multiple spirits and sweet, citrusy flavor. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the Long Island Iced Tea, from its origins and recipe to its popularity in modern cocktail culture.
What is Long Island Iced Tea?
The Long Island Iced Tea is a classic mixed drink that combines several types of alcohol, including vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec. Despite its name, this cocktail doesn’t actually contain any tea. The combination of spirits, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cola creates a refreshing, slightly sweet, and surprisingly strong drink.
This cocktail gained fame in the 1980s, though its true origins can be traced back to Long Island, New York. While it’s not made with traditional tea, the drink mimics the color and appearance of iced tea, hence its name. If you’re curious about the fascinating history of cocktails, you can dive deeper into the history of popular cocktails here.
History and Origins of Long Island Iced Tea
The origins of the Long Island Iced Tea date back to 1972, when a bartender named Robert “Rosebud” Butt from Long Island, New York, created the drink. He was participating in a contest to create a new mixed drink using triple sec. Butt’s creation became an instant hit, and what started as a local favorite soon gained national attention.
While Long Island is known for its unique drink, the cocktail has been widely embraced around the world. In fact, Iced Tea is often considered an all-American cocktail. Its popularity skyrocketed during the 1980s, when many bars began serving the drink at parties and celebrations.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Vodka – The best vodkas have a nearly flavorless profile. Choose one that’s been filtered multiple times for a smooth, neutral taste that won’t overpower the other ingredients.
Gin – Whether you prefer the bold, juniper-forward taste of London Dry or the richer, malty flavor of Genever, any gin you have on hand will work well for this cocktail.
Tequila – Use any variety of tequila you prefer, but it’s best to avoid smoky mezcal, as its intense flavor can overshadow the other components of the drink.
White Rum – Often referred to as light rum, this clear spirit brings tropical notes of vanilla and banana that complement the cocktail beautifully. Skip the overly sweet coconut rum unless you’re looking for a sweeter, less stiff version.
Triple Sec – Opt for a high-quality orange liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier for the best flavor. If you don’t have triple sec, you can substitute it with an equal amount of sour mix or orange juice.
Lemon – Fresh lemon is a must for the best flavor. Be sure to have enough for the drink, and reserve one for a garnish.
Cola – A splash of cola adds sweetness and complexity, as well as the tea-like color that gives the cocktail its name. Any brand of cola will do!
How To Make Long Island Iced Tea
Prepare your glass – Choose a tall glass, such as a highball or collins glass. Fill it with ice cubes to chill the drink properly.
Add the spirits – Pour in 1/2 oz each of vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec. This combination of spirits is what gives the Long Island Iced Tea its signature strength and bold flavor.
Add the mixers – Squeeze 1 oz of fresh lemon juice into the glass, followed by 1 oz of simple syrup for sweetness.
Shake it up – Transfer everything into a cocktail shaker. Add more ice if needed, then shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. The goal is to mix the ingredients thoroughly and chill the cocktail.
Strain and pour – Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with ice.
Top with cola – Add a splash of cola to the glass. This gives the drink its signature tea-like color and adds a touch of sweetness.
Garnish and serve – Garnish with a lemon wedge or mint sprig for an extra touch of freshness and flair.
Pro Tips for Making The Tea
To ensure your Long Island Iced Tea turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips that will elevate your cocktail-making skills:
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
- Lemon juice: Always opt for fresh, squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled versions. Fresh lemon juice provides a more vibrant, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the syrup and the strength of the spirits.
2. Use a Good Quality Triple Sec
- The quality of your orange liqueur can greatly affect the flavor of your cocktail. Go for a high-quality triple sec like Cointreau or Grand Marnier for a smooth and rich citrus note that elevates the drink.
3. Don’t Overdo the Cola
- A splash of cola is enough to give the drink its signature color and a hint of sweetness. Avoid adding too much, as it can overwhelm the other flavors. Remember, it’s supposed to mimic iced tea in appearance, not in taste.
4. Shake Well
- Properly shaking the ingredients in a cocktail shaker helps blend the spirits, lemon juice, and syrup into a smooth and balanced mix. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to ensure everything is well-integrated and chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a Long Island Iced Tea really made with tea?
No, despite its name, a Long Island Iced Tea does not actually contain any tea. The drink gets its name from its appearance, which resembles iced tea. It’s made with a mix of spirits, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cola.
How many types of alcohol are in a Long Island Iced Tea?
A traditional Long Island Iced Tea contains five types of alcohol: vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec (or orange liqueur). These spirits combine to create a strong, flavorful cocktail.
How strong is a Long Island Iced Tea compared to other cocktails?
The Long Island Iced Tea is considered a strong cocktail due to the combination of five different spirits. It typically has an alcohol content of around 22-25% ABV (alcohol by volume), which is stronger than many other mixed drinks.
Can I make a Long Island Iced Tea without alcohol?
Yes, you can easily make a non-alcoholic version of Long Island Iced Tea by omitting the spirits. Replace them with iced tea, lemonade, or a combination of citrus juices to replicate the flavor without the alcohol.
Can Long Island Iced Tea be made in a batch for a party?
Absolutely! The Long Island Iced Tea is perfect for batch preparation. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, mix them together in a large pitcher, and serve over ice. Add cola just before serving to keep it fresh and fizzy.
What are some good food pairings with Iced Tea?
Long Island Iced Tea pairs well with a variety of foods, such as:
- Grilled meats (burgers, steaks, chicken)
- Spicy appetizers (buffalo wings, jalapeño poppers)
- Tacos or Tex-Mex dishes
- Fried foods (onion rings, french fries)
What is the best type of rum for Long Island Iced Tea?
For a classic Long Island Iced Tea, use white rum (also known as light rum). It has a neutral flavor with subtle hints of tropical fruits like banana and vanilla. Avoid overly sweet rums, like coconut rum, unless you want a sweeter version of the cocktail.
Is it possible to make a healthier version of Iced Tea?
Yes, you can make a lighter version by reducing the amount of simple syrup or substituting it with a sugar-free sweetener. You can also use diet cola or a lower-calorie mixer to cut down on sugar and calories.
How can I make a Long Island Iced Tea less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness of your Iced Tea, use less simple syrup or omit it entirely. You can also swap the cola for a more neutral mixer, like club soda, to lessen the sweetness without sacrificing the drink’s balance.
Can I add other flavors to Long Island Iced Tea?
Yes! You can add different flavors by incorporating ingredients like fruit juices (such as cranberry, orange, or pineapple juice) or flavored liqueurs (like blue curaçao or cherry liqueur).
