Mai Tai Recipe – Classic Tiki Cocktail, Ingredients,

Mai Tai Recipe – The Mai Tai is one of the most iconic and beloved cocktails in the world of tiki culture. Bright, refreshing, and layered with tropical flavors, it has become a symbol of island vacations, beachside relaxation, and Polynesian-inspired mixology. First created in the 1940s by Victor “Trader Vic” Bergeron, the Mai Tai was designed to showcase the depth and complexity of premium aged rum rather than rely on sweet additives.

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With its blend of fresh lime, almond-based orgeat syrup, orange curaçao, and high-quality rum, the Mai Tai quickly became a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: Tiki / Polynesian-inspired

• Course: Cocktail / Beverage

• Servings: 1 drink

• Calories: Approximately 250–350 calories

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Active Time: 5 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

Classic Mai Tai Ingredients (1 Serving)

• 2 oz aged rum (Jamaican or blended works best)

• ¾ oz fresh lime juice

• ½ oz orange curaçao

• ½ oz orgeat syrup

• ¼ oz simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)

• Ice cubes

Rim & Garnish

• Mint sprig

• Lime wheel

• Spent lime shell (optional, traditional garnish)

• Pineapple wedge (optional modern addition)

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker

• Jigger

• Strainer

• Old-fashioned or double rocks glass

• Bar spoon

• Ice scoop

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Glass

Fill an old-fashioned or double rocks glass with crushed ice. Crushed ice gives the drink its signature frosty tiki presentation and helps dilute the cocktail gradually.

2. Add the Ingredients to a Shaker

In a cocktail shaker, combine:

• Aged rum

• Fresh lime juice

• Orange curaçao

• Orgeat syrup

• Simple syrup (if using)
  Add a handful of ice.

3. Shake Thoroughly

Shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds until the shaker becomes frosty. Shaking chills the mixture and incorporates the citrus and orgeat for a smooth, consistent flavor.

4. Strain Into the Glass

Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass over crushed ice. The drink should be amber and lightly cloudy from the combination of rum and orgeat.

5. Garnish Like a Tiki Pro

Add a fresh mint sprig near the straw for fragrance.
Place a lime wheel on the rim or float the spent lime shell on top—this is iconic in classic presentations.
If desired, add a small pineapple wedge or cherry for a festive touch.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Calorie and sugar content vary depending on rum brand and syrup proportions.

Tips for Making the Best Mai Tai

1. Use Quality Aged Rum

The flavor depends heavily on the rum. Jamaican or blended aged rums offer depth and complexity.

2. Fresh Lime Juice Only

Pre-bottled lime juice lacks the brightness needed for a balanced Mai Tai.

3. Don’t Skip the Orgeat

This almond syrup is essential—it gives the Mai Tai its unique identity.

4. Shake Well

Shaking properly blends the syrup, citrus, and spirits for a smooth finish.

5. Crushed Ice Matters

Crushed ice helps achieve the classic tiki look and gradual, pleasant dilution.

6. Taste Before Serving

Sweetness levels vary, so you can adjust lime or syrup to balance the drink.

Serving Suggestions

The Mai Tai pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled shrimp or seafood

• Pork sliders

• Hawaiian barbecue

• Teriyaki chicken

• Poke bowls

• Fried rice

• Tropical fruit platters

Perfect occasions for serving include:

• Pool parties

• Beach days

• Luaus

• Summer nights

• Tiki-themed events

• Backyard BBQs

• Vacations and celebrations

The bright colors, refreshing flavors, and aromatic garnishes make it a crowd favorite.

Conclusion

The Mai Tai is a timeless classic—a cocktail that showcases the beauty of rum and the creativity of tiki culture. With its perfect blend of citrus, almond, and rich rum, it offers a refreshing escape to tropical paradise in every sip. Easy to make yet elegant enough to impress guests, the Mai Tai is versatile, exciting, and endlessly customizable.