When was the last time you made a daiquiri or a mojito? Or perhaps you've never tried to make these yourself. If not, you are missing out on all that mixed drinks with rum have to offer.
Some of the most decadent and delicious cocktails are made with rum. Let's look at some recipes that go beyond the tropical tiki drink basics and into rum's full cocktail potential.
The rum legacy
Like most types of alcohol, rum has a long and interesting history. From its early beginnings to today's popularity, rum still stands tall as a drink of choice for many.
The cultivation of sugarcane began in India around -350BC. It was fermented but used as medicine. It wasn't until the 1400s that sugarcane started making its way to Europe through island trade routes - and along with it the non-medicinal fermented version: rum.
As colonization continued, rum found its way to North America. Since then, it's come a long way and is now a part of cocktail culture in various rum mixed drinks that have become well-known worldwide.
Is rum good for your health?
Rum is a smooth, rich, and tasty alcohol that makes fabulous warming cocktails. However, does rum have any health benefits? Let's explore the health claims of this popular beverage.
If you need to warm up, rum could do the trick; it will make you feel warm inside. Even a small amount can turn a cold shiver into a warm, soothing feeling. There's a rumor that rum is rich in antimicrobial properties, which can help kill bacteria that can cause colds and coughs.
Other health claims include rum decreasing cholesterol and preventing heart disease because it is a blood thinner. Although there may be some truth to these claims, it's best to see a medical professional: spiced rum cocktails are NOT medicine!
Is rum high in sugar?
Because rum is distilled from sugarcane, molasses, or the sugars from wheat grain, it is made from sugary ingredients. But what is the actual sugar content of the drink? Depending on the brand, a liter of rum can contain anything between 17 and 22 grams of sugar.
This may not sound like much, but most mixed drinks and fruit juices are also full of sugar, which adds up. Therefore, it's important to only drink the best rum brands with the lowest sugar content. And as always, moderation is key.
Sugar aside, let's take a look at some classic rum cocktails you can make at home and enjoy.
Bring the beach home with these rum cocktails
#1. Daiquiri
One of the classic white rum drinks, The Daiquiri, is a rum standard. You could blend your Daiquiri in a blender with strawberry pulp and ice, or you could use this classic recipe.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 oz. of white rum
- 1/2 tsp. of sugar
- 1/2 oz. of lime juice
DIRECTIONS
In a cocktail shaker, squeeze the lime juice, add the sugar, and stir. Add rum and shake well with ice. If you prefer slow-melting ice balls, you can make them with an ice ball maker. Strain the contents into a cocktail glass that has been chilled.
#2. Dark and Stormy
A spicy, feel-good, and warming drink, The Dark and Stormy is known as one of the best dark rum cocktails around! Try not to swap the ginger ale for ginger beer; it tastes better if you don't.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 oz. of dark rum
- 3 oz. of ginger beer (or if you absolutely cannot find ginger beer, use ginger ale)
- 1/2 oz. of lime juice (optional)
DIRECTIONS
In a tall glass, add ice cubes, then add your rum. Pour your ginger beer (and add lime juice for extra zing.) Stir the contents and garnish with a lime wedge.
#3. Piña Colada
Piña Coladas are popular for a good reason. These refreshing cocktails are a tropical island in a glass. They are smooth, sweet, and oh so moresome! Enjoy one of the most classic rum cocktails and let your imagination transport you to a tiki party!
INGREDIENTS
- 2 1/2 oz. of your best rum
- 3 oz. of unsweetened pineapple juice
- 1 oz. of coconut cream
- 5 or 6 ice cubes
DIRECTIONS
First, add the rum to your blender. Next, add your unsweetened pineapple juice (use whole or crushed pineapple if possible.) Then add the coconut cream and blend on high with the ice. Pour the contents into a tall glass.
#4. Hot Buttered Rum
If you're looking for a hot rum cocktail that will give you a warm fuzzy feeling all over in cold weather, Hot Buttered Rum is it! It is a delicious way to spice up a winter night.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 oz. of dark rum
- 2 sugar cubes
- A pat of unsalted butter
- A sprinkle of nutmeg
DIRECTIONS
Dissolve sugar with a small amount of hot water in a mug. Then add your rum and pat of butter. Fill the mug up with hot water. Garnish your hot cocktail with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
#5. Mojito
Who doesn't love a mojito? Most people will agree it's one of the best rum cocktails. Mojitos are light and refreshing and super-easy to make. You'll be the hit at any party if you bring your mojito-making magic!
INGREDIENTS
- 2 oz. of white rum
- 1/2 oz. of lime juice (freshly-squeezed is best)
- 1 tsp. of sugar
- 3 mint leaves
- Club soda or seltzer
DIRECTIONS
In a Collins cocktail glass (small-sized), mix the lime juice with the sugar. Add mint leaves and crush them against the side of the glass. Fill up the glass to about ⅔ of the way with the ice, and then finally pour in the rum.
Throw in the lime that was squeezed and top off the glass with the club soda.
#6. Air Mail
Who would think that rum and champagne can work well together? The Air Mail is proof that it does. This is an interesting and delightful drink, well worth a try!
INGREDIENTS
- 2 oz. of golden rum
- 0.5 oz. of lime juice
- 1 tsp. of honey
- 5 oz. of champagne (Brut is best)
- Cracked ice
DIRECTIONS
Stir the rum in with the lime juice and honey. Add it to cracked ice in a cocktail shaker that has been chilled. Shake well, then pour the unstrained contents into a Collins glass. Top off the glass with champagne.
Rum isn't just for pirates!
Rum has come far since the early days of the island trade routes. Its unique flavor and adaptability to make great cocktails have kept rum alive today as an excellent base for cocktails.
With these recipes, you'll never wonder what to mix with rum again. Grab a blender or a shaker and make your favorite rum drink today. The best rum cocktails are easy to make with simple ingredients. With minimal effort, you'll become a rum cocktail wizard in no time!