What is Cuba Libre?
Cuba Libre is a classic cocktail drink that has been around since the early 1900s. It’s made with white rum and cola, usually Coca-Cola, blended together in one glass. This zesty beverage was first created to celebrate the Spanish-American War of 1898 and it remains popular today as a refreshing way to cool down on hot summer days.
It’s believed that this cocktail originated in Havana, Cuba, where sailors from America would mix their local alcoholic beverages with soft drinks like Coca-Cola. While its exact origins are unknown, it did become popular among American soldiers during World War II when they were stationed in Cuba or other parts of Latin America.
How do you make a Cuba Libre?
Making a good Cuba Libre requires just two ingredients: white rum and your favorite brand of cola (usually Coca-Cola). To make one serving for yourself, pour 1 shot of white rum into an ice filled glass followed by 4 ounces of cola. Give it all a stir with your bar spoon; the drink should be lightly carbonated if stirred properly.
Some recipes call for lime juice as well but this isn’t necessary; it’s up to personal preference whether you’d like to add some extra sweetness or tartness to your cocktail. If desired, squeeze half a lime directly into each serving before stirring again. You can also garnish each glass with an additional wedge of lime for presentation purposes – enjoy!
Can I use different types/flavors of Rum?
Absolutely yes — depending on how strong flavored spirits appeal to your taste buds feel free experiment away! Darker rums will bring out sweeter flavors whereas lighter colored ones may have more subtle tones which blend better with certain brands/types of sodas.
Likewise flavoured options can also be used e.g spiced rums work wonderfully alongside cranberry juice while coconut infused ones pair perfectly with pineapple based mixes.
Cuba Libre
Ingredients
- Ingredients: -
- 2 ounces of light rum
- ½ ounce fresh lime juice
- Cola to fill
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the rum and lime juice into the glass.
- Top off with cola and stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim of your glass, if desired, and serve immediately!
Glassware
The typical glassware used for a Cuba Libre is a highball or Collins glass. This type of tall, cylindrical glass is perfect for creating the classic layered drink with cola and lime wedges. In some cases, an old-fashioned (rocks) glass may be used instead. margarita: The traditional margarita is served in a shallow “coupette” style margarita glass, which has a wide brim to allow more salt and sugar to adhere to the rim of the glass. Alternatively, it can also be served in an old-fashioned (rocks) or martini glasses as well.
Flavors
Cuba Libre or rum and cocke is a classic Caribbean cocktail originating in Cuba. It is traditionally made with light rum, lime juice, and Coca-Cola. The flavor of this drink really comes from the combination of these three ingredients. The lime juice adds a bright and slightly tart note that complements the sweetness of the Coke wonderfully.
The rum gives it its backbone, contributing an unmistakable hint of molasses to round out the flavor profile. Together they combine for a refreshingly sweet and tangy drink that’s perfect for sipping on hot summer days!
