Is There Tea In Long Island Iced Tea?
According to legend, the Long Island Iced Tea was first invented in the 1920s as an alternative to the traditional whiskey cocktail. Since then, the popular cocktail has taken off, becoming a favorite not only in America but in countries around the world. But the question remains: is there actually tea in a Long Island Iced Tea?
History Of The Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea was created in the 1920s in a New York speakeasy. The exact recipe is unknown, but according to some accounts it contains five different types of alcohol, including vodka, tequila, gin, white rum, and triple sec.
To give it the classic iced tea flavor, some original versions of the cocktail also included a splash of sweet tea. This added sweetness may be why many people are unsure if there is any tea present in a Long Island Iced Tea.
The Truth About Long Island Iced Teas
So, does a Long Island Iced Tea actually contain any tea at all? The answer is yes and no.
While some classic versions of the drink would have been made with a splash of sweet tea, modern versions of the Long Island Iced Tea are usually made without any tea added. The sweetness comes from the mixture of the different types of alcohol and the other ingredients, such as sweet and sour mix, cola, or lemon juice.
Alternatives To The Long Island Iced Tea
If you’re looking for a cocktail with a tea flavor, there are several options. Here are some of the most popular choices:
- Lemon Tea Martini: This twist on a classic martini uses lemon tea as the base. It’s perfect for a summer afternoon.
- Mint Green Tea Mojito: This delicious twist on a mojito uses green tea as an alternative to white rum. The mint and green tea blend nicely to create an interesting flavor.
- Long Island Iced Tea with Tea: For a traditional Long Island Iced Tea flavor, add a splash of sweet tea to the mix. This will give it the classic iced tea flavor without taking away from the strength of the alcohol.
Conclusion
So, is there tea in Long Island Iced Tea? While some original recipes did contain tea, most modern versions do not. If you’re looking for a cocktail with a tea flavor, there are plenty of alternatives that use tea as the base.
