CUBA LIBRE HIGHBALL.
The Cuba Libre (Spanish for Free Cuba) originated around 1900 in Havana, Cuba during the Spanish-American War. Patriots aiding Cuba often toasted the West Indian Island and its freedom with this rum, cola, and lime cocktail.
There are many ways to make this classic drink of old Havana. Some use white rum, some go darker. Some call for Coca-Cola, others for RC Cola or natural colas. Cola.
The main thing to remember is that this drink is more than a “rum and Coke.” Here’s a version with a little twist: the addition of bitters and (if you desire/dare) gin. You can use any kind of rum, but Spirits columnist Jason Wilson prefers a gold or dark rum that is aged. He also suggests replacing the lime juice with half an ounce of Key lime juice or lemon juice.
1 serving
Ingredients:
1/2 to 1 lime
Ice cubes
2 ounces rum, preferably gold or dark (see headnote)
1/2 ounce gin (optional)
Coca-Cola, chilled
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Directions:
Squeeze the lime half or halves into a Collins glass (to yield 1/2 ounce juice), then drop in the spent lime half. Add 3 or 4 ice cubes. Pour in the rum and gin, if desired, then fill with the chilled Coca-Cola. Add the bitters; stir briefly to incorporate.
NUTRITION FACTS
Information per serving
Calories: 160
% Daily Values*
Total Fat: 0g 0
Saturated Fat: 0g 0
Cholesterol: 0mg 0
Sodium: 0mg 0
Total Carbohydrates: 8g 3
Dietary Fiber: 0g 0
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 0g
*Percent Daily Value based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Total Fat: Less than 65g
Saturated Fat: Less than 20g
Cholesterol: Less than 300mg
Sodium: Less than 2,400mg
Total Carbohydrates: 300g
Dietary Fiber: 25g
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The Cuban History, Hollywood.
Arnoldo Varona, Editor