How to Make a Mai Tai

Have you been searching for the perfect Mai Tai recipe? Whether it conjures up thoughts of a Polynesian beach vacation or memories of a Friday night tradition at the local Chinese restaurant, this tropical drink has been an American tradition since it was introduced at Trader Vic's in Oakland, California in 1944. This guide to how to make a Mai Tai will have you sipping away in no time!

What is a trip to a Chinese restaurant without a Mai Tai? Wouldn't it be nice to be able to enjoy one at home? Well, now you can! A few simple ingredients and tools, and you'll be sipping away in Polynesian splendor.

How to Make a Mai Tai

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How to make a Mai Tai

source: www.youtube.com

This video from Mahalo features Anthony Pea of the National Bartender's School making his version of a Mai Tai. Pea uses both light and dark rum, which are combined with sour mix and pineapple juice. He replaces the classic orgeat with creme de almond, and serves the drink in a Collins glass, rather than the traditional rocks glass.

What You'll Need to Make a Mai Tai

Mai Tai Ingredients

2 ounces rum
- Mix light and dark, or use one type, depending on your preference.
1/2 ounce Orgeat, an almond flavored liqueur
1/2 ounce Orange Curacao
1/4 ounce simple syrup
- Need a simple syrup recipe? Check out Mahalo's how to make simple syrup.
2 ounces fresh lime juice
Lime wedge for garnish
Crushed ice

Mai Tai Equipment

Cocktail shaker
8-12 ounce rocks glass

Making a Mai Tai

Fill glass with ice.
Combine the remaining ingredients in cocktail shaker.
Shake until well mixed.
Pour into rocks glass, over the ice.
Garnish with a lime wedge.

Tips and Tricks for Making A Mai Tai

A rock candy swizzle stick is a nice touch!
Can thread cherries on a tropical umbrella stirrer for the full Chinese restaurant effect.
Some people prefer Grand Marnier to the Orange Curacao.
You can replace the orgeat with amaretto, or a drop of almond extract.
Can make the glasses special by dipping the rims in simple syrup, then sugar.
Substitute 151 rum for part of the light or dark rum for a higher octane Mai Tai.
Top with 1/2 ounce of dark rum.
Some people use blue curacao instead of orange for the color.
Party stores sell the little paper umbrellas, which give Mai Tais an air of authenticity.
Can be prepared ahead and stored in a pitcher in the refrigerator.