Tequila and Coke (Batanga Cocktail)

This Tequila and Coke recipe, also known as a Batanga cocktail, is a great mix of bold tequila and refreshing coke, offering a great balance of flavors. Its rich, oaky tequila notes blend seamlessly with the caramel sweetness of coke.

Today, we're diving into a classic yet often overlooked gem - the Tequila and Coke cocktail, also known as the Batanga. Perfect for those warm summer evenings or as a quick party mix, this cocktail brings a delicious blend of tequila and the familiar sweetness of coke, elevated by a zesty hint of lime.

It's a drink that's as easy to make as it is enjoyable, making it a favorite for both beginners and seasoned cocktail enthusiasts.

Jump to:

• What You'll Love About This Drink
• Glassware and Equipment
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Garnishes
• Top Tip
• Substitutions
• Variations
• Recipe

What You'll Love About This Drink

• Simplicity: Its straightforward recipe makes it an excellent choice for impromptu gatherings.
• Versatility: It's easily customizable to suit individual tastes, whether you prefer it stronger or milder.
• Refreshing Quality: The combination of cola and lime makes it a refreshing choice, especially on hot days.
• Universal Appeal: Its familiar flavors are a hit among various palates, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Glassware and Equipment

• Highball Glass: The traditional choice, perfect for the volume and aesthetic of the Batanga.
• Measuring Jigger: To measure the tequila accurately.
• Spoon or Stirrer: For gently mixing the drink.
• Alternatives: No highball glass? No problem! Any tall glass will do. And if you don't have a jigger, a tablespoon can work in a pinch (one shot is approximately three tablespoons).

Ingredients

Tequila: The heart of the Batanga, tequila adds a smooth, yet robust flavor. With its complex notes ranging from sweet agave to earthy wood, it's not just the base but the soul of the cocktail. Opt for a Reposado or Añejo for a richer taste. You can read more about the different tequila types to help you choose.

Coke: More than just a sweet mixer, coke brings a unique blend of caramel, vanilla, and spice flavors, creating a perfect harmony with the tequila. Its carbonation also adds a delightful fizz, making the drink more refreshing.

Lime: This is the zesty twist. Lime juice not only adds a splash of tartness but also brightens the overall flavor profile, cutting through the sweetness of the coke and the richness of the tequila.

Salt (Optional): When used to rim the glass, salt can elevate the drinking experience. It enhances the sweet and sour elements, making each sip a perfect balance of flavors.

Instructions

Rimming the Glass: Begin by slicing a lime into wedges. Run one wedge around the rim of a highball glass to moisten it. Pour a small amount of salt onto a plate and dip the rim into the salt, turning the glass until the rim is evenly coated.

Icing the Glass: Fill the glass to the top with ice cubes. The ice not only chills the drink but also helps to dilute the tequila slightly, mellowing its strength.

Adding the Tequila: Pour the tequila over the ice. It's important to pour slowly to prevent the ice from melting too quickly.

Squeezing the Lime: Squeeze the juice from a lime wedge over the tequila. This adds a fresh burst of citrus and balances the sweetness of the coke.

Completing with Coke: Gently top the glass with coke, leaving a little space at the top. Pouring gently is key to maintaining the fizz.

The Final Stir: Stir the mixture gently with a spoon or a stirrer. This is to mix the ingredients without losing the carbonation from the coke.

Garnish and Serve: Add your chosen garnish, pop in a straw, and your Batanga is ready to be enjoyed.

Garnishes

Lime Wheel or Wedge: A classic choice that reinforces the lime flavor in the drink and adds a touch of elegance.

Mint Sprig: For a refreshing aroma and a hint of green, a sprig of mint can be a delightful addition.

Cherry: A maraschino cherry not only adds a pop of color but also a subtle sweetness, complementing the deeper tones of the tequila.

Orange Slice: For a slightly different citrus note, an orange slice can add both visual appeal and a milder citrus taste.

Cucumber Ribbon: For a modern twist, a thin ribbon of cucumber can add a crisp, clean element to the drink.

Top Tip

The number one tip for making a fantastic Batanga (Tequila and Coke) cocktail is to use high-quality tequila. The tequila is the backbone of this drink, and its flavor significantly influences the overall taste of the cocktail.

Opting for a good-quality Reposado or Añejo tequila can add depth and a smoother, more refined flavor profile, elevating the Batanga from a simple mixed drink to a sophisticated and enjoyable cocktail experience.

Substitutions

• For Tequila: If tequila isn't your thing, try a dark rum for a sweeter, smoother drink, or vodka for a more neutral taste.
• For Coke: Any cola works, but for a less sugary option, try diet cola or even a cola-flavored soda water for a lighter version.
• For Lime: In the absence of lime, lemon is a great substitute, offering a similar citrusy zing.

Variations

• Spicy Batanga: Add a dash of hot sauce or a slice of jalapeño to your drink for a spicy kick that complements the tequila's boldness.
• Fruity Twist: Muddle fresh fruits like berries, pineapple, or mango at the bottom of the glass before adding the other ingredients for a sweet, fruity variation.
• Herbal Notes: Infuse the tequila with herbs like rosemary or basil for a few hours before making the cocktail for an aromatic twist.
• Smoky Batanga: Use a smoky mezcal instead of tequila for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.