Mai Tai I

Mai Tai I Recipe from Tahiti - Ingredients include Orgeat, Curaçao, and Orange

Region / culture: Tahiti | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 1

Introduction

Mai Tai is a classic tropical cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. This refreshing drink is a blend of orgeat syrup, curaçao, orange juice, and lime juice, creating a delicious and vibrant flavor profile.

History

The Mai Tai cocktail was created in the 1940s by Victor J. "Trader Vic" Bergeron, a renowned bartender and restaurateur. The exact origins of the drink are disputed, with some claiming it was invented in Trader Vic's restaurant in Oakland, California, while others believe it was first made in Don the Beachcomber's tiki bar in Hollywood. Regardless of its origins, the Mai Tai has become a beloved classic cocktail enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Combine the ingredients and serve the cocktail over ice.

Variations

You can customize the Mai Tai cocktail by adding different types of rum, such as dark rum or spiced rum, to create a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making a Mai Tai, be sure to use fresh citrus juices for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different types of rum to find the perfect combination for your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Mai Tai cocktail over ice in a tiki glass garnished with a slice of orange and a sprig of mint for a tropical touch.

Cooking Techniques

Mix the ingredients in a shaker with ice to chill the cocktail before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute almond syrup for orgeat syrup if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare a batch of Mai Tai cocktail mix ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Mai Tai cocktail in a festive tiki glass with a colorful paper umbrella for a fun and tropical presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

The Mai Tai cocktail pairs well with grilled seafood, tropical fruits, and spicy dishes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Mai Tai cocktail mix in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Approximately 200 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

Orgeat syrup: 30g

Curaçao: 6g

Orange juice: 26g

Lime juice: 2g

Fats

Orgeat syrup: 0g

Curaçao: 0g

Orange juice: 0g

Lime juice: 0g

Proteins

Orgeat syrup: 0g

Curaçao: 0g

Orange juice: 1g

Lime juice: 0g

Vitamins and minerals

Orgeat syrup: Contains vitamin E

Curaçao: Contains vitamin C

Orange juice: Contains vitamin C

Lime juice: Contains vitamin C

Alergens

Orgeat syrup may contain nuts

Summary

The Mai Tai cocktail is a refreshing drink that is relatively low in calories and fat. It contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the orgeat syrup and fruit juices.

Summary

The Mai Tai cocktail is a classic tropical drink that is perfect for enjoying on a hot summer day. With its refreshing blend of orgeat syrup, curaçao, orange juice, and lime juice, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Mai Tai. It was back in the summer of 1975, and I was vacationing in Hawaii with your grandfather, Larry. We had just arrived at a beautiful resort on the island of Oahu, and we were greeted with leis and tropical drinks.

As we settled into our room, we noticed a small booklet on the bedside table that was filled with cocktail recipes. One in particular caught my eye - the Mai Tai. The description of this drink sounded so refreshing and tropical, I knew I had to try making it myself.

The next day, I wandered down to the resort's bar and asked the bartender if he could show me how to make a Mai Tai. He was more than happy to oblige, and he walked me through the steps of mixing rum, lime juice, orange liqueur, and orgeat syrup together in a shaker filled with ice. He then poured the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice and garnished it with a slice of pineapple and a maraschino cherry.

I took a sip of the drink and was instantly transported back to the sandy beaches and swaying palm trees of Hawaii. The Mai Tai was the perfect balance of sweet and sour, with just the right amount of kick from the rum. I knew that I had to learn how to make this cocktail so I could bring a taste of paradise back home with me.

Over the years, I perfected my Mai Tai recipe, tweaking the ratios of the ingredients until I found the perfect combination. I would serve it at parties and gatherings, always receiving compliments and requests for the recipe. I even entered it into a cocktail competition once and won first place!

As I continued to make Mai Tais for friends and family, I shared the story of how I first learned to make this drink in Hawaii. It became a beloved tale that was passed down through the generations, along with the recipe itself.

Now, whenever I mix up a batch of Mai Tais, I can't help but smile as I remember that sunny afternoon in Hawaii when I first discovered this delicious cocktail. It's a reminder of the wonderful memories I've made over the years, and the joy of sharing my love of cooking and mixology with those I care about.

So next time you're in the mood for a taste of the tropics, just ask me for my Mai Tai recipe. I'll be more than happy to whip up a batch and share the story of how I learned to make this classic cocktail. Cheers to good times, good drinks, and good memories!