Mix up a classic Bacardi Cuba Libre drink in minutes with our easy recipe! Golden rum and refreshing cola combine with fresh lime slices to create a deliciously balanced cocktail. Perfect for beginning bartenders, serve in a highball glass and garnish with a slice of lime for a simple yet sophisticated drink. Cheers!
Bacardi Cuba Libre Ingredients
- 1-1/2 oz Golden Rum
- (Coke) Cola
- 2 slices Lime
- garnish Lime
Bacardi Cuba Libre Equipment
- knife - to prepare garnish slice
Bacardi Cuba Libre Recipe
- mix ingredients together
- pour into ice filled Highball glass
Recommend: serve in Highball glass
The highball (or hi-ball) and collins glasses have a lot in common. They can both be used for tall beverages and hold the same amount of liquid, which can range from 8 to 16 ounces.The Cuba Libre: A Classic Cocktail with a Rich History
If you're looking for a timeless cocktail that's both refreshing and easy to make, look no further than the Cuba Libre. This simple yet classic drink is a combination of rum, cola, and lime, and is enjoyed all over the world for its smooth, sweet, and slightly tart flavor. In this article, we'll explore the history and popularity of the Cuba Libre, the roles of its ingredients, how to garnish it, and some variations to try. We'll also discuss some common mistakes to avoid when making this delicious cocktail.
Popularity
History and Origins
The Cuba Libre is believed to have originated in Havana, Cuba, during the Spanish-American War at the turn of the 20th century. As the story goes, American soldiers stationed in Cuba mixed Bacardi rum with Coca-Cola and lime to create a refreshing drink that reminded them of home. They toasted to the newly independent Cuba with the phrase "¡Por Cuba Libre!" which means "For a Free Cuba!" and the name stuck.
By the 1920s, the Cuba Libre had become a popular drink in the United States and was often served in speakeasies during Prohibition. It continued to gain popularity throughout the 20th century and is now enjoyed all over the world.
Famous for
The Cuba Libre is famous for its simplicity and refreshing taste. It's a classic cocktail that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether you're enjoying a relaxing drink at home or partying with friends.
Geographic
While the Cuba Libre is enjoyed all over the world, it's particularly popular in Latin America and the Caribbean, where it's often served with a twist of local flavor. For example, in Mexico, it's common to add a splash of tequila to the mix, while in Puerto Rico, it's often made with a dark rum like Bacardi Black.
Appearance
The Cuba Libre is a simple cocktail that's typically served in a highball glass with ice. It has a caramel color from the cola and a wedge of lime for a pop of green.
Ingredient Roles
The Cuba Libre is made with just three ingredients: rum, cola, and lime. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
Rum
The rum is the star of the show in the Cuba Libre. It's what gives the drink its signature sweetness and depth of flavor. We recommend using a golden rum like Bacardi Gold for a smooth and mellow taste.
Cola
The cola is what gives the Cuba Libre its fizz and sweetness. We recommend using a classic cola like Coca-Cola for its iconic flavor.
Lime
The lime is what gives the Cuba Libre its signature tartness. It's important to use fresh lime juice for the best flavor. We also recommend using a slice of lime as a garnish for a pop of color and extra flavor.
How to Garnish
Garnishing your Cuba Libre is easy and adds a nice touch of flavor and color. Here's how to do it:
- Cut a lime into thin slices.
- Squeeze a wedge of lime into your highball glass.
- Drop the lime wedge into the glass.
- Add ice to the glass.
- Pour in the rum and cola.
- Stir gently.
- Garnish with a slice of lime.
Variations
While the classic Cuba Libre is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations to try. Here are a few ideas:
Virgin/Mocktail Version
To make a non-alcoholic version of the Cuba Libre, simply omit the rum and replace it with a splash of apple juice or coconut water for added flavor.
Gluten-Free Version and Ingredients
The Cuba Libre is naturally gluten-free, as none of its ingredients contain gluten. However, if you're gluten-sensitive, be sure to use a gluten-free cola like Zevia Cola.
Vegan Version
The Cuba Libre is vegan as is, but be sure to use a vegan cola like Virgil's Cola to keep it fully plant-based.
Keto Version
To make a keto-friendly version of the Cuba Libre, replace the cola with a sugar-free cola like Zevia Cola and use a low-carb rum like Bacardi Silver.
Low-Calorie Version
To make a lower-calorie version of the Cuba Libre, use a diet cola like Diet Coke and replace the full-sugar rum with a lower-calorie option like Bacardi Light.
More Variations
There are endless variations of the Cuba Libre to try, such as adding a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical twist or using a flavored rum like Bacardi Coconut for added flavor.
Common Mistakes When Making
While the Cuba Libre is a simple cocktail, there are a few common mistakes to avoid when making it:
- Using flat cola: The fizz is what makes the Cuba Libre refreshing, so be sure to use fresh, carbonated cola.
- Using too much lime: While lime is an important ingredient in the Cuba Libre, too much can overpower the other flavors. Stick to one wedge per glass.
- Using the wrong rum: Not all rums are created equal. Be sure to use a quality golden rum like Bacardi Gold for the best flavor.
- Not garnishing: While garnishing is optional, it adds a nice touch of flavor and color to the cocktail. Don't skip it!
In conclusion, the Cuba Libre is a classic cocktail with a rich history and a refreshing taste that's enjoyed all over the world. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or one of the many variations, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion. By following our tips and avoiding common mistakes, you'll be sure to create the perfect Cuba Libre every time. Cheers!
If you are going to order Bacardi Cuba Libre in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Bacardi Cuba Libre can be served with different ingredients in different places.
