Mai Tai Cocktail Recipe
Mai Tai Nutrition Facts
Calories:260
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:20g
Alcohol:22%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Mai Tai is a classic Polynesian-style cocktail that was created in 1944 by Victor J. Bergeron, the founder of Trader Vic's. It is said that he wanted to create a drink that showcased the flavors of the Caribbean, and the Mai Tai was born. The name 'Mai Tai' comes from the Tahitian word 'Maita'i', which means 'good' or 'excellent'. This cocktail quickly gained popularity and became a staple in tiki bars around the world.
- The original recipe called for 17-year-old J. Wray & Nephew Rum, which is no longer available.
- The Mai Tai has been adapted and modified over the years, with many variations now existing.
- This cocktail is often associated with tropical vacations and tiki culture.
How Mai Tai Tastes?
The Mai Tai has a balanced, sweet, and tangy taste with a hint of almond from the orgeat syrup. The combination of light and dark rums gives it a rich and complex flavor, while the lime juice adds a refreshing citrus note.
Interesting facts about Mai Tai
- The Mai Tai is considered one of the quintessential tiki cocktails.
- The original Mai Tai did not include any fruit juices, as many modern versions do.
- The cocktail has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including the 1961 film 'Blue Hawaii' starring Elvis Presley.
Ingredients
- Light rum: 1 oz(30ml)
- Dark rum: 1 oz(30ml)
- Lime juice: 0.75 oz(23ml)
- Orange curaçao: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Orgeat syrup: 0.25 oz(8ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.25 oz(8ml)
- Mint sprig: 1
- Garnish: Lime wheel and cherry
Light Rum (1 oz)
This is the beach-in-a-glass soul of the Mai Tai. It contributes to the smoothness and tropical foundation. Too much, and you're steering the ship towards boozy oblivion; too little, and the drink lacks backbone. No light rum? Try white agricole rum for an earthy twist!
Mary Mitkina
Dark Rum (1 oz)
Dark rum gives the Mai Tai its molasses-like depth and complexity. Skip this, and you'll miss out on the sunset hues and the rich, caramel notes—like a beach without the warm sand. Feeling adventurous? Spiced rum can add a kick of vanilla and spice!
Emma Rose
Lime Juice (0.75 oz)
This zesty character adds freshness and balance to prevent the sweet ingredients from overwhelming the palate. Less juice makes the sweetness cloying; more juice, and you're puckering more than kissing. Think of it as the squeeze of lime your seafood taco desperately wants.
Alex Green
Orange Curaçao (0.5 oz)
A sweet, subtly bitter orange liqueur, this adds the citrusy sophistication. Without it, the drink is like a vacation without sun - something's definitely missing. Triple sec can hop in as a sub, but expect a lighter orangey touch.
Mary Mitkina
Orgeat Syrup (0.25 oz)
Oh, orgeat, the almond charmer! This nutty syrup is essential for that almondy caress in the Mai Tai. Without it, you're just waving at the tropics from afar. Too much, and it's like eating marzipan on the beach in a storm.
Emma Rose
Simple Syrup (0.25 oz)
The subtle sugary friend that makes sure the orgeat doesn't get too bossy. Without this little bit of sweetness, the drink could come off a bit sharp, like a gentleman without his bow tie.
Alex Green
Mint Sprig
So much more than a green hat! This fragrant garnish is your nose's first impression, lush and inviting. With each sip, it reminds you - you're on vacation, buddy, even if it's just in your backyard.
Mary Mitkina
Garnish: Lime Wheel and Cherry
The cocktail's jewelry. The lime wheel says, 'I'm still zesty', and the cherry, that sweet flirt, winks, 'And I've got the fun.' They're not just a pretty face; they contribute to the whole tropical escapade.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make Mai Tai Drink
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add the light rum, dark rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake well until chilled and combined.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a mint sprig, lime wheel, and cherry.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Shake the cocktail well to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
- Crushed ice is preferred as it dilutes the drink less.
Perfect Pairings
Seafood
- Especially good with grilled shrimp or ceviche due to the citrus notes in the cocktail that complement seafood flavors.
Asian Cuisine
- The sweetness of the Mai Tai pairs pleasantly with spicy dishes from Thai or Vietnamese cuisine. Think spicy mango salad or lemongrass chicken. The cocktail's sweet and sour profile cuts through the heat.
Hawaiian Plates
- A match made in tropical paradise with kalua pork and poke bowls. The cocktail's nutty flavor from the orgeat syrup goes hand in hand with these dishes.
Barbecue
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork sandwiches balance with the Mai Tai's sweetness and acidity, making for a refreshing contrast.
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What you could change in Mai Tai
- Light rum: Can be replaced with any other white rum.
- Dark rum: Can be replaced with any other dark rum.
- Orange curaçao: Can be replaced with triple sec or another orange liqueur.
- Orgeat syrup: Can be replaced with almond syrup.
Explore all drinks starting with M here
And of course - twists🍹
Passion Fruit Mai Tai
- Substitute traditional syrups with 0.5 oz of passion fruit syrup for an exotic, tangy twist. The result is a Mai Tai that takes your taste buds on a Polynesian voyage.
Spiced Mai Tai
- Use spiced rum instead of dark rum and add a cinnamon stick garnish. This is for the adventurer who likes a treasure chest of flavors in their sip—the nutmeg, vanilla, and cinnamon from the spiced rum will make the flavors dance.
Mango Mai Tai
- Add 1 oz of mango nectar to amplify the tropical vibes. Mango's rich sweetness will blend harmoniously with the orgeat and make your Mai Tai sunset even more picturesque.
In case you forgot basics how to make Mai Tai
The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.
Learn everything about simple syrupAdd your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!
Frequently Asked Questions on Mai Tai
What does 'Tiki culture' refer to?
Tiki culture or 'Tiki pop' is a style that began in the United States in the mid-20th century. It is inspired by the romanticized perception of tropical cultures, particularly Polynesian.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Mai Tai?
Yes, there are non-alcoholic versions known as 'mocktails'. Typically these will use tropical juices to replicate the sweet and tangy flavors of the original Mai Tai.
What kind of glass is best to serve a Mai Tai in?
The Mai Tai is traditionally served in a 'double old-fashioned' glass, but can also be served in a highball glass or a novelty 'Tiki' mug.
What is the meaning of 'curaçao'?
Curaçao refers to a type of liqueur made from the dried peel of the Laraha citrus fruit, native to the island of Curaçao in the Caribbean.
Why is the cherry often used as a garnish?
The cherry provides a pop of color contrast against the cocktail, and adds a layer of sweetness when eaten towards the end of the drink.
More similar recipes to Mai Tai!
Explore new cocktails you'd love!
Pina Colada
The Piña Colada is a sweet, creamy, and fruity cocktail with a smooth texture. The flavors of pineapple and coconut blend harmoniously, creating a tropical taste sensation. The rum adds a subtle warmth and depth to the drink.
White Russian
The White Russian is a creamy, sweet, and slightly strong cocktail. The combination of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
Harvey Wallbanger
The Harvey Wallbanger has a sweet and fruity taste, with a hint of herbal bitterness from the Galliano. The orange juice adds a refreshing citrus flavor, while the vodka provides a smooth and subtle kick.
Royal Hawaiian
The Royal Hawaiian cocktail has a sweet and fruity taste, with a hint of tartness from the pineapple juice. The gin adds a subtle herbal and floral note, while the orgeat syrup provides a rich almond flavor. Overall, the drink is well-balanced, refreshing, and perfect for sipping on a warm day.
Japanese
The Japanese Cocktail has a delicate, slightly sweet and nutty flavor profile. The combination of orgeat syrup and cognac creates a smooth, velvety texture, while the bitters add a subtle hint of spice and complexity.
Mai Tai (Trader Vic's)
The Mai Tai has a well-balanced, sweet, and tangy flavor profile with a hint of almond from the orgeat syrup. The combination of light and dark rums gives it a smooth, rich taste with a subtle hint of oakiness.
Margarita
The Margarita is a well-balanced cocktail with a bright, citrusy flavor. It is both sweet and sour, with the tanginess of lime juice complementing the sweetness of the orange liqueur. The tequila adds a strong, earthy backbone, while the salt rim enhances the overall taste and adds a savory touch.
Daiquiri
The Daiquiri is a refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet cocktail with a hint of citrus. It has a light and crisp taste, making it perfect for warm weather or as an aperitif.
Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea is a complex blend of flavors, combining the sweetness of cola and sour mix with the boldness of multiple spirits. It is a strong, yet surprisingly smooth cocktail with a slightly bitter aftertaste.
Cable Car
The Cable Car cocktail offers a delightful balance of sweet and sour flavors, with a hint of spice from the cinnamon garnish. The drink is smooth, refreshing, and moderately strong, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a well-rounded cocktail experience.
Daisy
The Daisy cocktail is a refreshing, citrusy, and slightly sweet drink with a hint of tartness. It has a well-balanced flavor profile that is both light and invigorating, making it perfect for warm weather or as an aperitif.
El Presidente
El Presidente is a smooth, well-balanced cocktail with a hint of sweetness and a touch of tartness. The combination of rum, orange curaçao, and vermouth creates a complex flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Barracuda
The Barracuda cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter flavors. The sweetness of the pineapple juice and the tanginess of the lime juice create a refreshing, fruity base, while the rum adds a warm, rich depth. The Galliano liqueur provides a subtle hint of herbal bitterness, balancing out the overall taste and making it a well-rounded, satisfying drink.
Navy Grog
Navy Grog is a well-balanced cocktail with a complex flavor profile. It's strong, yet refreshing, with a combination of sweet, sour, and spicy notes. The rum provides a rich, warm base, while the citrus juices add a bright, tangy element. The honey and spices round out the flavor, giving the drink a touch of sweetness and depth.
Yellow Bird
The Yellow Bird cocktail has a sweet and fruity taste, with a hint of sourness from the lime juice. It is a well-balanced drink that is both refreshing and flavorful. The combination of rum, Galliano, and fruit juices creates a tropical and exotic flavor profile that is perfect for warm weather and beachside sipping.
Painkiller
The Painkiller cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. The combination of pineapple and orange juices creates a fruity base, while the coconut cream adds a rich, creamy sweetness. The dark rum provides a strong, warming backbone, and the freshly grated nutmeg on top adds a subtle hint of spice.
Mary Pickford
The Mary Pickford cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and fruity flavors. The pineapple juice and grenadine give it a tropical sweetness, while the maraschino liqueur adds a hint of cherry and almond. The rum provides a smooth and slightly warming finish.
Quarantine
The Quarantine cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and slightly spicy flavors. The fruity notes from the orange and pineapple juices are balanced by the tangy lime and the subtle heat from the ginger syrup, while the rum adds a smooth, warming finish.
Martini
The Martini has a crisp, clean, and slightly herbal taste. It is a strong and sophisticated cocktail with a hint of bitterness from the vermouth.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned has a rich, complex taste that is both sweet and bitter. The whiskey provides a strong, warming base, while the sugar and bitters add a touch of sweetness and a hint of spice. The orange and cherry garnish add a subtle fruity note.
Manhattan
The Manhattan cocktail is a well-balanced blend of sweet, bitter, and strong flavors. The sweetness comes from the vermouth, while the bitterness is derived from the aromatic bitters. The whiskey provides a robust and full-bodied taste, making the drink a perfect choice for those who enjoy a strong and complex cocktail.
Mojito
The Mojito is a refreshing, sweet, and slightly sour cocktail with a hint of mint and a subtle rum kick. It is a well-balanced drink that is both invigorating and easy to sip.
Caipirinha
The Caipirinha has a refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet taste. The combination of lime and sugar provides a perfect balance of sour and sweet, while the cachaça adds a unique, earthy flavor. The drink is strong, yet smooth and easy to sip.
Gin and Tonic
The Gin and Tonic is a refreshing, crisp, and slightly bitter cocktail with a hint of sweetness. The botanical flavors of the gin are complemented by the sharpness of the tonic water, creating a balanced and invigorating drink.
Flaming Dr. Pepper
The Flaming Dr. Pepper has a unique, sweet, and slightly spicy taste. It is reminiscent of the Dr. Pepper soft drink, with a hint of caramel and a warming sensation from the flaming alcohol.
Cuban Missile Crisis
This cocktail has a bold, complex taste with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bitter flavors. The rum provides a strong, warming sensation, while the lime juice adds a refreshing tanginess. The bitters and sugar syrup round out the flavor profile, making it a truly satisfying and memorable drink.
Hot Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum has a rich, creamy, and buttery taste with a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar and a warming sensation from the spices and rum. The flavors are well-balanced, making it a perfect winter cocktail.