When it comes to cocktails, few are as well-known as the Long Island Iced Tea. This classic drink is typically made with a blend of spirits, including vodka, gin, rum, and tequila, as well as a splash of cola for color. But did you know that you can put a unique twist on this classic cocktail by adding oolong tea to the mix?
The history of the Long Island Iced Tea is a bit murky, with several bars and bartenders claiming to have invented it. However, most stories agree that the drink originated in the 1970s, possibly on Long Island, New York, where it gets its name. It was likely created as a way to make a strong, yet flavorful drink with a high alcohol content.
The traditional recipe for a Long Island Iced Tea includes vodka, gin, rum, tequila, triple sec, lemon juice, simple syrup, and a splash of cola. However, the exact measurements and proportions can vary depending on who you ask. Some bartenders may use more or less of a certain ingredient to suit their taste or the preferences of their customers.
But for a unique twist on this classic drink, you can try adding oolong tea to the mix. Oolong tea is a flavorful and aromatic tea that is produced from the Camellia sinensis plant, the same plant used to make black tea and green tea. However, oolong tea is unique in that it is partially oxidized, giving it a complex flavor profile that can range from floral and fruity to earthy and nutty.
To make an Oolong Long Island Iced Tea, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz rum
- 1 oz tequila
- 1 oz triple sec
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 1 oz oolong tea, cooled
- splash of cola
Directions:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, gin, rum, tequila, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice.
- Add the cooled oolong tea and stir to combine.
- Top with a splash of cola for color.
The addition of oolong tea to the classic Long Island Iced Tea recipe adds a unique twist that is both flavorful and refreshing. The tea adds a layer of complexity to the drink, with its delicate and nuanced flavors balancing out the strong alcoholic flavors.
While the Long Island Iced Tea is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time, adding oolong tea to the mix is a fun and unexpected way to put a unique twist on this beloved drink. So the next time you’re looking for a cocktail that is sure to impress, give the Oolong Long Island Iced Tea a try.
