Mai Tai Recipe

White rum: A light and clear rum that provides a smooth base for the cocktail.

Dark rum: A richer, more robust rum that adds depth and complexity to the drink.

Orange curaçao: A citrus-flavored liqueur that adds a sweet and tangy note.

Orgeat syrup: A sweet almond syrup that gives the cocktail a unique and nutty flavor.

Fresh lime juice: Adds a refreshing and tart element to balance the sweetness.

Simple syrup: A mixture of sugar and water that adds a touch of sweetness.

Lime wheel: Used as a garnish to enhance the presentation.

Mint sprig: Adds a fresh aroma and a pop of color to the drink.

When shaking the cocktail, ensure you use fresh ice to achieve the right dilution and chill. Fresh lime juice is crucial for a vibrant, tangy flavor. For the best presentation, gently slap the mint sprig between your hands before garnishing to release its aromatic oils.

• white rum - Substitute with vodka: Vodka has a neutral flavor that can mimic the lightness of white rum in cocktails.

• dark rum - Substitute with aged tequila: Aged tequila has a rich, complex flavor that can stand in for the depth of dark rum.

• orange curaçao - Substitute with triple sec: Triple sec is another orange-flavored liqueur that can replace orange curaçao in cocktails.

• orgeat syrup - Substitute with almond extract and simple syrup: A mix of almond extract and simple syrup can replicate the nutty sweetness of orgeat syrup.

• fresh lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar tartness and acidity to fresh lime juice.

• simple syrup - Substitute with honey syrup: Honey syrup (honey mixed with water) can add sweetness and a slight floral note similar to simple syrup.

• lime wheel - Substitute with lemon wheel: A lemon wheel can serve as a visually appealing and flavorful garnish similar to a lime wheel.

• mint sprig - Substitute with basil sprig: Basil provides a fresh, aromatic garnish that can replace mint in cocktails.

• To keep your Mai Tai fresh and delightful, store the white rum, dark rum, and orange curaçao in a cool, dark place. This helps maintain their flavors and prevents any degradation from light exposure.
• If you have leftover lime juice, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. Freshly squeezed lime juice can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Orgeat syrup and simple syrup should be stored in the refrigerator. These syrups can last for about a month when kept cold.
• For the mint sprig, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. Store it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to a week.
• If you want to prepare the Mai Tai mix in advance, combine the white rum, dark rum, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, lime juice, and simple syrup in a sealed container and refrigerate. This pre-mixed concoction can be stored for up to 24 hours.
• When ready to serve, give the pre-mixed Mai Tai a good shake before pouring it over crushed ice. Add the lime wheel and mint sprig garnish just before serving to ensure they remain vibrant and fresh.
• Avoid freezing the Mai Tai mix as the texture and flavor of the lime juice and syrups can be compromised. Instead, focus on chilling the ingredients and serving over ice for the best experience.

• Pour the Mai Tai into a heatproof container.
• Place the container in a pot of simmering water, ensuring the water level is below the rim of the container.
• Gently stir the Mai Tai occasionally to evenly distribute the heat.
• Once warmed to your desired temperature, pour the Mai Tai back into a glass filled with fresh crushed ice.
• Garnish with a fresh lime wheel and mint sprig to revive its vibrant presentation.

• Shaker: A shaker is essential for mixing all the ingredients together with ice to create a well-blended Mai Tai.

• Strainer: A strainer is used to ensure that only the liquid is poured into the glass, leaving the ice and any solid ingredients behind.

• Glass: A glass, preferably a highball or rocks glass, is used to serve the Mai Tai.

• Ice: Ice is crucial for chilling the drink and maintaining its refreshing quality.

• Jigger: A jigger is used to measure the precise amounts of each ingredient to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

• Lime wheel: A lime wheel is used as a garnish to add a touch of visual appeal and a hint of citrus aroma.

• Mint sprig: A mint sprig is used as a garnish to add a fresh, aromatic element to the drink.

Pre-mix ingredients: Combine white rum, dark rum, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, lime juice, and simple syrup in a bottle and store in the fridge for quick access.

Use bottled lime juice: Opt for high-quality bottled lime juice to save time on squeezing fresh limes.

Crushed ice in bulk: Prepare and store crushed ice in advance to avoid last-minute hassle.

Garnish prep: Pre-slice lime wheels and keep mint sprigs ready in a container for quick garnishing.