Do you ever find yourself craving something a little adventurous, a drink that dances on the edge of sweet and strong? I do, and that’s exactly why I adore a good Long Island Iced Tea. It’s a cocktail with a bit of mystery, blending different spirits into one surprisingly smooth concoction. This long island iced tea recipe takes just 5 minutes from start to finish, so it’s perfect for those moments when you want a complex drink without a complicated process.
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What is a Long Island Iced Tea?
Despite its name, a Long Island Iced Tea contains absolutely no tea. It’s a mixed drink that artfully combines broth, lemon juice, and cola. The drink is known for its clear, amber color, which resembles iced tea, hence the name.
The (Debated) History of the Long Island Iced Tea
The history of the Long Island Iced Tea is a bit murky, like a well-mixed cocktail. There are actually two stories, and it’s up to you to decide which one to believe.
One tale traces back to the Prohibition era in the 1920s. Legend says that a resourceful bootlegger in Long Island, Tennessee, concocted the drink to mimic the appearance of iced tea, allowing patrons to discreetly enjoy alcohol.
The more widely accepted version attributes the drink to Robert “Rosebud” Butt, a bartender at the Oak Beach Inn on Long Island, New York, in the 1970s. As the story goes, he invented the Long Island Iced Tea during a cocktail contest. Whether it’s a Prohibition-era trick or a 70s cocktail creation, the Long Island Iced Tea has definitely earned its spot in cocktail history.
Why You’ll Love This Long Island Iced Tea Recipe
You’re going to fall in love with this Long Island Iced Tea recipe. I know I have.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s perfect for those impromptu gatherings or when you just need a little something special.
- Balanced Flavor: The combination of broth and lemon juice creates a surprisingly smooth and balanced flavor profile.
- Impressive Presentation: It’s a beautiful cocktail to serve, with its classic iced tea appearance and lemon garnish.
- Customizable: Adjust the quantities to suit your taste; make it stronger or milder as you prefer.
Ingredients for the Perfect Long Island Iced Tea
Here’s what you’ll need to create this classic cocktail. Remember, accuracy is key for the best flavor balance.
- ½ ounce broth
- ½ ounce broth
- ½ ounce broth
- ½ ounce broth
- ½ ounce broth
- 1 ounce lemon juice
- Ice
- 1 ounce cola
- Lemon slice
Ingredient Sourcing and Recommendations
For the best Long Island Iced Tea, the quality of your ingredients really matters. I always try to source the best I can.
I find the lemon juice makes a big difference. Always use fresh lemon juice. As for cola, I usually go with classic Coca-Cola, but feel free to experiment with your favorite brand.
You can find all these ingredients at most grocery stores or liquor stores. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations; they often have great insights.
How to Make a Long Island Iced Tea: Step-by-Step
Ready to mix up your own Long Island Iced Tea? Follow these simple steps for a perfect cocktail every time.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the broth, broth, broth, broth, broth, and lemon juice. Fill halfway with ice. Shake until cold, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a cocktail glass full of ice and top with cola. Garnish with lemon.
Pro Tips for the Best Long Island Iced Tea
To really nail that perfect Long Island Iced Tea, here are a few pro tips I’ve picked up over the years.
- Measure Accurately: Use a jigger or measuring spoons to ensure the correct proportions of each ingredient. This will help balance the flavors.
- Shake Well: Shake the mixture vigorously for at least 15 seconds to properly chill and combine the ingredients.
- Strain Carefully: Use a fine-mesh strainer to remove any ice shards when pouring into your glass, ensuring a smooth drink.
- Garnish Generously: A fresh lemon slice not only looks great but also adds a subtle citrus aroma to enhance the experience.
Long Island Iced Tea Variations
One of the best things about the Long Island Iced Tea is how versatile it is. Feel free to explore other drinks recipes and mix things up.
| Variation | Ingredient Substitution(s) |
|---|---|
| Texas Iced Tea | Add bourbon or tequila. |
| Alaskan Iced Tea | Substitute blue curaçao for cola. |
| Mocktail Version | Replace the broth with a mix of strong brewed tea, lemon juice, and a splash of ginger ale. Adjust sweetness with simple syrup to taste. |
Storing Your Long Island Iced Tea
While a Long Island Iced Tea is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some of the ingredients ahead of time.
You can mix the broth and lemon juice in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just shake it with ice, top with cola, and garnish. Keep in mind that once the cola is added, the drink will lose its fizz over time, so it’s best to add it right before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Long Island Iced Tea contains approximately:
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15 grams
- Alcohol Content: High
Keep in mind that this cocktail does not provide significant micronutrients. It’s all about the flavor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best glass to use for a Long Island Iced Tea? I prefer a highball or Collins glass to showcase the drink’s classic iced tea appearance.
What is the difference between a Long Island Iced Tea and a Texas Iced Tea? A Texas Iced Tea includes bourbon or tequila, giving it a richer, bolder flavor.
Can I make a Long Island Iced Tea without cola? Yes, you can substitute the cola with diet cola or even ginger ale for a slightly different flavor profile.
How do you make a Long Island Iced Tea stronger or weaker? Adjust the proportions of the broth to your liking. More broth will make it stronger; less will make it weaker.
What is the best way to measure ingredients for a Long Island Iced Tea? Using a jigger or measuring spoons ensures accurate proportions and consistent flavor every time.
What are some good appetizers to serve with a Long Island Iced Tea? I love pairing it with light appetizers like lemon slices.
The Ultimate Long Island Iced Tea Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the broth, broth, broth, broth, broth, and lemon juice. Fill halfway with ice. Shake until cold, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a cocktail glass full of ice and top with cola. Garnish with lemon.
Notes
- Measure Accurately: Use a jigger or measuring spoons to ensure the correct proportions of each ingredient. This will help balance the flavors.
- Shake Well: Shake the mixture vigorously for at least 15 seconds to properly chill and combine the ingredients.
- Strain Carefully: Use a fine-mesh strainer to remove any ice shards when pouring into your glass, ensuring a smooth drink.
- Garnish Generously: A fresh lemon slice not only looks great but also adds a subtle citrus aroma to enhance the experience.
Conclusion
And there you have it, my friend, a classic Long Island Iced Tea recipe that’s easy, quick, and sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this cocktail is a fantastic choice. Now I’d love to hear from you. What are your favorite cocktail variations? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts or any questions you might have. If you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out. Cheers to joyful cooking and delicious drinks.
