A Mai Tai is a tropical cocktail that is synonymous with Tiki culture and is a popular choice at beachfront and poolside bars. It’s a refreshing and flavorful mix of rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup (a sweet syrup made from almonds, sugar, and rose water or orange flower water), and orange liqueur, garnished with a sprig of mint and sometimes a slice of lime or a pineapple wedge. The drink is known for its beautiful presentation as well as its sweet and tangy flavor profile which perfectly complements a sunny day by the sea.
Recipe for Mai Tai
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ ounces white rum
- ½ ounce orange Curaçao (or any good quality triple sec)
- ¾ ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
- ½ ounce orgeat syrup
- ½ ounce dark rum (to float on top)
- Ice cubes
- Mint sprig, for garnish
- Lime wheel, for garnish
- Pineapple slice, optional, for garnish
Appliances and Special Utensils:
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Hawthorne strainer or Cocktail strainer
- Tiki mug or a highball glass
Instructions:
- Prepare the Glass:
- Fill a Tiki mug or highball glass with ice cubes to chill.
- Mix the Cocktail:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the white rum, orange Curaçao, freshly squeezed lime juice, and orgeat syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice, covering the liquid completely.
- Shake:
- Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 to 20 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain:
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
- Float the Dark Rum:
- Carefully pour the dark rum over the back of a spoon so it floats on top of the drink.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wheel, and optionally, a pineapple slice.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste of this classic tropical cocktail.