Mai Tai Recipe

White rum: A light-bodied rum that forms the base of the drink, providing a smooth and subtle flavor.

Dark rum: A richer, more robust rum that adds depth and complexity when floated on top.

Orange curaçao: A sweet and slightly bitter orange-flavored liqueur that enhances the citrus notes of the cocktail.

Orgeat syrup: A sweet almond syrup that adds a nutty and floral dimension to the drink.

Fresh lime juice: Provides the necessary acidity and freshness to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients.

Mint: A fresh herb used as a garnish to add a fragrant aroma and visual appeal.

Lime: A slice of lime used as a garnish to complement the fresh lime juice in the drink.

When floating the dark rum on top, use the back of a spoon to slow the pour and create a distinct layer. This technique not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures that the flavors of the dark rum and white rum remain distinct, offering a more complex taste experience.

• 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 similar depth and complexity, adding a rich flavor to the drink.

• orange curaçao - Substitute with triple sec: Triple sec is another orange-flavored liqueur that can provide a similar citrusy sweetness.

• orgeat syrup - Substitute with almond extract and simple syrup: Almond extract mixed with simple syrup can replicate the nutty and sweet profile of orgeat syrup.

• fresh lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar tartness and acidity, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

• mint - Substitute with basil: Basil offers a fresh, aromatic quality that can complement the other flavors in the cocktail.

• lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon slices can be used as a garnish to provide a similar visual appeal and a hint of citrus aroma.

• To keep your Mai Tai fresh and delicious, store any leftover cocktail in an airtight container. A mason jar works perfectly for this.
• Place the container in the refrigerator. The Mai Tai can be stored for up to 24 hours without losing its vibrant flavors.
• If you plan to store the Mai Tai for a longer period, consider separating the lime juice and mint garnish from the main mixture. This helps maintain the freshness of the citrus and the herbs.
• For freezing, pour the Mai Tai mixture (excluding the dark rum float) into ice cube trays. This allows you to enjoy a quick, chilled cocktail whenever you desire.
• Once frozen, transfer the Mai Tai cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to serve, simply place the Mai Tai cubes in a glass and let them melt slightly. Add the dark rum float and garnish with mint and lime as per the original recipe.
• Remember, freezing can slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cocktail, so it's best enjoyed fresh whenever possible.

• Pour the Mai Tai into a small saucepan.
• Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
• Avoid boiling to preserve the flavors of the rum and lime juice.
• Alternatively, you can microwave the Mai Tai in a microwave-safe container. Heat in 10-second intervals, stirring between each interval to avoid overheating.
• Once warmed, pour the Mai Tai back into a glass filled with fresh crushed ice.
• Garnish again with a fresh mint sprig and a lime slice to refresh the presentation.

• Shaker: Used to mix the ingredients thoroughly with ice, ensuring a well-blended and chilled drink.

• Strainer: Helps to separate the liquid from the ice when pouring the mixture into the glass.

• Glass: The vessel in which the Mai Tai is served, typically filled with crushed ice.

• Spoon: Used to float the dark rum on top by pouring it over the back of the spoon.

• Jigger: A measuring tool to ensure precise amounts of each ingredient are used.

• Ice crusher: Crushes ice to the desired consistency for the drink.

• Knife: Used to slice the lime for garnish.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to safely cut the lime.

• Muddler: Optional, but can be used to gently press the mint sprig to release its aroma before garnishing.

Pre-mix ingredients: Measure and combine white rum, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and lime juice in advance to save time.

Use bottled lime juice: If you're in a hurry, opt for high-quality bottled lime juice instead of squeezing fresh limes.

Crushed ice in bulk: Prepare a batch of crushed ice and store it in the freezer to quickly fill your glass.

Batch cocktails: Make a larger batch of the Mai Tai mix and store it in the fridge for quick serving.

Garnish prep: Pre-slice lime and wash mint sprigs ahead of time for easy garnishing.