The Mai Tai cocktail is one of the most popular tropical drinks of all time. It was first created in 1944 by Victor J. Bergeron, a famous bartender and founder of the famous tiki bar, Trader Vic’s. He claimed to have invented the drink while experimenting with a new rum that had recently become available in the United States.
The original recipe for the Mai Tai features two kinds of rum, lime juice, orange curacao, orgeat (almond syrup), and a dash of rock candy syrup. It is served over crushed ice in a glass and garnished with a pineapple wedge, a sprig of mint and a maraschino cherry.
Today, there are variations of the original Mai Tai recipe. The most popular version is the “Royal Hawaiian,” which is made with light and dark rum, lime juice, orgeat, orange curacao, and a splash of simple syrup.
If you want to make a Mai Tai at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
-1 1/2 ounces of light rum
-1/2 ounce of dark rum
-1/2 ounce of orange curacao
-1/2 ounce of orgeat syrup
-1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice
-Splash of simple syrup
For a less boozy version, you can use one ounce of light rum and skip the dark rum altogether.
Once you have the ingredients, fill a rocks glass with crushed ice. Pour in the light and dark rum (or light rum only if you’re making a less boozy version), followed by the orange curacao, orgeat syrup, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir the ingredients together and garnish with a pineapple wedge, a sprig of mint, and a maraschino cherry.
The Mai Tai is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a classic version or a less boozy version, this tropical drink is sure to be a hit!
You’re sure to be famished after this Mai Tai. Find a great recipe for dinner.