Cuban Missile Crisis Cocktail Recipe

The Cuban Missile Crisis cocktail is inspired by the tense 13-day political and military standoff in 1962 between the United States and the Soviet Union over the installation of nuclear-armed Soviet missiles in Cuba. This cocktail is a favorite among history buffs and those who enjoy a strong, complex drink with an interesting backstory.

This cocktail has a bold, complex taste with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bitter flavors. The rum provides a strong, warming sensation, while the lime juice adds a refreshing tanginess. The bitters and sugar syrup round out the flavor profile, making it a truly satisfying and memorable drink.

• The Cuban Missile Crisis cocktail is named after the 1962 event that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war.
• This cocktail is often served in a chilled martini glass, symbolizing the icy tension between the US and the USSR during the crisis.
• The combination of ingredients represents the various nations involved in the conflict, with rum from Cuba, lime juice from the Caribbean, and bitters from the United States.

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds, or until well chilled and combined.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lime twist or a cherry, if desired.

• Shake the cocktail shaker vigorously to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.
• Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
• Chill the martini glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer.

Food Pairings

• Tacos al Pastor: The acidity of the lime juice complements the tangy flavors of the pineapple and pork.
• Ceviche: A fresh and zesty seafood dish that is balanced by the refreshing kick of the cocktail.
• Empanadas: The heartiness of meat-filled empanadas is cut through by the cocktail's crispness.

Drinks Pairing

• Cold Brew Coffee: For a non-alcoholic pairing that echoes the robustness of the rum with its own depth.
• Champagne: As an aperitif, champagne's bubbly nature can provide a delicate contrast to the cocktail's punchiness.

• Rum: Can be replaced with vodka for a less sweet taste.
• Simple syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be used as a natural sweetener.
• Angostura bitters: Other types of bitters can be used for a different flavor profile.

The Soviet Standoff

• Replace the rum with vodka to align with more Soviet tastes.
• Use lemon juice instead of lime for a sharper, more continental twang.
• Add a splash of cranberry for a red hue, reminiscent of the Cold War.

The Caribbean Quarantine

• Float blue curacao on top for a colorful blockade effect.
• Swap out simple syrup for coconut syrup to add tropical sweetness.
• Garnish with a pineapple wedge to signify the lush Caribbean landscape.

The Diplomat

• Stir in the mixture instead of shaking for a smoother, less aggressive mix.
• Serve in an Old-Fashioned glass with a large ice cube signifying cooler heads prevailing.
• Add a spritz of orange peel oils to represent the zest of diplomatic efforts.