The original recipe for the Mai Tai included Jamaican rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange curacao. The cocktail was then garnished with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime wedge. Over the years, many variations of the Mai Tai have been created, but the classic recipe remains the most popular.
It is important to use a good quality rum, preferably a dark rum, as it provides the perfect base for the cocktail. Lime juice should be freshly squeezed, and the orgeat syrup should be made with almonds for an authentic taste. Orange curacao can be substituted with triple sec or another orange liqueur, but the classic recipe calls for orange curacao.
To make a classic Mai Tai, start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 1 ounce of lime juice, 1/2 ounce of orgeat syrup, 1/2 ounce of orange curacao, and 2 ounces of dark rum. Shake the ingredients well and strain the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish the cocktail with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime wedge.
- Lime juice
- Orgeat syrup
- Orange curacao
- Dark rum
- Ice
- Fresh mint and lime wedge (garnish)
Whether you are enjoying a night out with friends or hosting a party at home, the Mai Tai is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try and impress your guests with your mixology skills? Cheers!