Tangerine Cocktail Recipe

Tangerine Nutrition Facts

Calories:180

Fat:0g

Protein:0.5g

Carbohydrates:20g

Alcohol:10%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Tangerine Cocktail was first created in the 1960s at the famous Tropicana Club in Havana, Cuba. This refreshing and fruity cocktail quickly gained popularity among the club's high-profile clientele, including celebrities and politicians. The Tangerine Cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a citrusy and tropical drink.

  • The Tropicana Club was known for its extravagant shows and luxurious atmosphere
  • The Tangerine Cocktail was often enjoyed by guests while watching the club's famous cabaret performances
  • This cocktail has since become a classic, enjoyed by people all around the world

How Tangerine Tastes?

The Tangerine Cocktail is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and slightly bitter flavors. The fresh tangerine juice provides a bright citrusy taste, while the rum adds a subtle warmth and depth. The addition of orange liqueur and lime juice creates a well-rounded and balanced flavor profile.

Interesting facts about Tangerine

  • Tangerines are a type of mandarin orange and are known for their sweet and tangy flavor
  • The Tropicana Club, where the Tangerine Cocktail was first created, is still in operation today and continues to be a popular tourist destination
  • Tangerines are high in vitamin C, making this cocktail a delicious way to boost your immune system

Ingredients

Tangerine Juice

It's the star of the show, providing a sweet and slightly tart base. 2 oz is just right to ensure it doesn't overpower the other flavors. Without it, you'd lose the namesake 'tangerine' aspect. Substitute with orange juice if in a pinch, though the flavor profile will be slightly different, less tangy.

Emma Rose

White Rum

1.5 oz gives that kick without knocking you out. White rum is cleaner than dark rum, keeping the drink light and fresh. Losing the rum would turn this into a mocktail, but if you must, try a non-alcoholic spirit or more tangerine juice for balance.

Alex Green

Orange Liqueur

A half ounce to add depth and complexity, as well as sweetness. Without it, the drink is less layered. Cointreau or triple sec are common options; using a different liqueur will change the citrus character.

Mary Mitkina

Fresh Lime Juice

The sour punch of 0.5 oz counters the sweetness and brings harmony to the drink. Skipping lime juice will make the cocktail too sweet, while adding more might overshadow the delicate tangerine. Lemon juice could be used for a twist.

Emma Rose

Ice

A cup, because no one likes a lukewarm cocktail. Ice chills and slightly dilutes the drink, smoothing the flavors. No ice would mean a less refreshing drink, with a stronger taste. Crushed ice can make it slushier if that tickles your fancy.

Alex Green

Garnish

A tangerine slice and a mint sprig don't just look pretty; they add aroma and a hint of fresh minty flavor when you take a sip. Without it, the presentation and subtle flavor cues are missed. Try an orange peel or basil for a difference in aroma and appearance.

Mary Mitkina

Recipe. How to make Tangerine Drink

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
  2. Add tangerine juice, white rum, orange liqueur, and lime juice to the shaker
  3. Shake well until chilled and combined
  4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass
  5. Garnish with a tangerine slice and a sprig of mint

Pro Tips

  • Use fresh tangerine juice for the best flavor
  • Chill your cocktail glass before serving for a refreshing experience
  • Shake well to ensure all ingredients are well combined

Perfect Pairings

Appetizers

  • Roasted Almonds: The nuttiness complements the tangy citrus notes.
  • Shrimp Ceviche: The acidity from tangerine and lime marry well with fresh seafood.

Main Courses

  • Grilled White Fish: A light and flaky fish would be enhanced by the fruity cocktail.
  • Chicken Satay: The sweetness of the tangerine juice can balance the spicy peanut sauce.

Desserts

  • Fruit Tart: Select a dessert with citrus elements to echo the flavors in the drink.
  • Dark Chocolate: Bold chocolate can contrast pleasantly against the sweet and tart cocktail.

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What you could change in Tangerine

  • Tangerine juice: Can be replaced with orange juice or mandarin juice
  • White rum: Can be substituted with vodka or gin
  • Orange liqueur: If not available, use Cointreau or Grand Marnier

Explore all drinks starting with T here

And of course - twists🍹

Tangerine Sunrise

  • Swap the white rum for tequila.
  • Add a splash of grenadine.
  • Follow the original recipe, but layer the grenadine at the bottom for a sunrise effect. Taste will be bolder, with a sweet grenadine finish that adds a pop of color and a tequila twist.

Tangerine Sparkler

  • Replace 0.5 oz of tangerine juice with prosecco.
  • Add the prosecco after shaking the other ingredients.
  • Serve in a flute glass. The cocktail becomes festive, with a fizzy kick that tickles the nose and lightens the beverage.

Spicy Tangerine

  • Add a small slice of jalapeño to the shaker.
  • Muddle the jalapeño before adding the other ingredients. A subtle heat complements the tangerine's sweetness, offering an adventurous take on a bright, refreshing option.

In case you forgot basics how to make Tangerine

Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.

Learn everything on how to shake

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Tangerine

What is the appropriate glass for a Tangerine cocktail?

A Tangerine cocktail is often served in a cocktail or martini glass.

Can I use any kind of rum for this cocktail?

While the Tangerine cocktail recipe specifies white rum, the choice of rum can greatly influence the flavor. For a more robust flavor, dark rum can be used.

What are some similar citrus-based cocktails?

Other citrus-based cocktails include the Margarita, which uses lime juice, and the Screwdriver, which uses orange juice.

Are there any non-alcoholic versions of this cocktail?

Yes, a non-alcoholic version of the Tangerine cocktail can be made by substituting the white rum and orange liqueur with non-alcoholic alternatives, such as sparkling water or a citrus-flavored soda.

What pairs well with a Tangerine cocktail?

A Tangerine cocktail pairs nicely with light appetizers, such as shrimp cocktails or cheese platters.

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