Introduction
The Long Beach Iced Tea is a vibrant and fruity twist on the classic Long Island Iced Tea. This cocktail swaps out the cola for cranberry juice, giving it a bright, refreshing flavor that’s perfect for summer gatherings, parties, or just relaxing at home. With its mix of vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec, this drink packs a punch, but the tart cranberry and fresh lemon juice balance it out, making it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a fan of the original or looking for something new, the Long Beach Iced Tea is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into how to make this easy and delicious cocktail.
Overview of the Recipe
The Long Beach Iced Tea is a cousin to the Long Island Iced Tea, featuring a similar mix of spirits but with the addition of cranberry juice for a fruity twist. This cocktail is known for its smooth blend of flavors, making it deceptively easy to drink despite the mix of strong spirits. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a balanced, flavorful drink with a hint of sweetness and a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz rum
- 1/2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz tequila
- 1/2 oz triple sec
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Splash of cola
- Lemon wedge, for garnish
- Ice cubes
Directions
1. Prepare the Shaker:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. The ice helps chill the ingredients quickly and evenly, ensuring a perfectly cold drink.
2. Add the Spirits and Juices:
- Pour 1/2 oz each of vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec into the shaker. These spirits form the backbone of the cocktail, giving it its signature strength and complexity.
- Add 1 oz of cranberry juice, 1 oz of lemon juice, and 1 oz of simple syrup to the shaker. The cranberry juice adds a tart, fruity flavor, while the lemon juice and simple syrup provide a balance of acidity and sweetness.
3. Shake the Mixture:
- Shake the shaker vigorously for about 15-20 seconds, or until the mixture is well-chilled. Shaking not only mixes the ingredients but also helps to slightly dilute the drink, making it smoother.
4. Strain into a Glass:
- Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice. The ice in the glass helps keep the drink cool as you sip.
5. Add a Splash of Cola:
- Top the drink with a splash of cola. This adds a touch of fizz and a hint of sweetness, rounding out the flavors of the cocktail.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the drink with a lemon wedge for a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Long Beach Iced Tea!
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
The Long Beach Iced Tea is a versatile cocktail that pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are some suggestions:
- Light Appetizers: Serve alongside light appetizers like shrimp cocktail, bruschetta, or a fresh salad to complement the drink’s fruity and refreshing notes.
- Grilled Foods: The bold flavors of the cocktail pair well with grilled dishes like chicken skewers, burgers, or grilled vegetables.
- Mexican Cuisine: The tartness of the cranberry juice and lemon juice in the drink makes it a great match for spicy Mexican dishes like tacos, nachos, or quesadillas.
Variations of the Recipe
The Long Beach Iced Tea is highly adaptable, and you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences:
- Blue Long Beach Iced Tea: Replace the cranberry juice with blue curaçao for a vibrant blue version of the drink.
- Virgin Long Beach Iced Tea: Omit the alcohol and increase the cranberry juice, lemon juice, and cola for a non-alcoholic version that’s just as refreshing.
- Strawberry Long Beach Iced Tea: Use strawberry puree or strawberry juice instead of cranberry juice for a fruity twist.
Health Benefits
While the Long Beach Iced Tea is an indulgent cocktail, it does contain some beneficial ingredients:
- Vitamin C: The lemon juice in the drink provides a good dose of vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system.
- Antioxidants: Cranberry juice is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from oxidative stress.
Enjoy this cocktail in moderation as part of a balanced lifestyle.
FAQs
1. Can I make a pitcher of Long Beach Iced Tea? Yes, you can scale up the ingredients to make a pitcher for a party. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix them in a large pitcher. Add ice and a splash of cola to each glass when serving.
2. What can I use instead of triple sec? If you don’t have triple sec, you can use another orange-flavored liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier. For a non-alcoholic option, use orange juice.
3. Can I use a different type of cola? Yes, you can use any type of cola you prefer, including diet or flavored colas. Each type will slightly alter the taste of the cocktail.
4. What type of glass should I use? A tall glass, such as a Collins glass or highball glass, is typically used for serving Long Beach Iced Tea. This allows plenty of room for ice and the splash of cola.
5. How do I make simple syrup? To make simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it cool before using. Simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Conclusion
The Long Beach Iced Tea is a delicious and refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. With its blend of strong spirits, tart cranberry juice, and a splash of cola, it offers a flavorful twist on the classic Long Island Iced Tea. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a relaxing evening, or trying out new cocktail recipes, this drink is sure to impress. Mix one up, experiment with variations, and savor the delightful flavors of this vibrant cocktail!