This party favorite has been around for quite some time. It’s not overly fruity and features a good blend of sweet and sour. For a splash of color, garnish with strawberries and lime.
The Mai Tai is a classic tropical cocktail that evokes visions of sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, and the soothing sounds of the ocean. This refreshing and vibrant drink has become synonymous with exotic vacations and tiki culture. With its unique combination of rum, citrus juices, and a hint of almond, the Mai Tai offers a delightful balance of flavors that instantly transports you to a tropical paradise. Let’s explore the history and story behind this beloved cocktail and learn how to make it yourself.
The exact origins of the Mai Tai are a subject of debate and mystery, with multiple claims to its creation. However, the most widely accepted story credits the invention of the Mai Tai to Victor J. Bergeron, better known as Trader Vic, who created the cocktail in the late 1930s or early 1940s. Trader Vic was a legendary restaurateur and cocktail innovator, and his Polynesian-themed bars became popular destinations for those seeking an escape from everyday life.
According to the story, Trader Vic created the Mai Tai when a friend visiting from Tahiti tasted a new rum he had acquired. The friend exclaimed, “Mai Tai – Roa Ae!” which means “Out of this world – the best!” in Tahitian. Inspired by this enthusiastic endorsement, Trader Vic combined the rum with other ingredients, including lime juice, orange liqueur, and a touch of almond syrup, to create a cocktail that captured the essence of the South Pacific.
The Mai Tai gained popularity throughout the 1950s and 1960s as tiki culture and Polynesian-themed restaurants became a trend. It became synonymous with exotic vacations, tropical resorts, and an overall sense of escapism. Over time, variations of the Mai Tai emerged, but the original recipe remains a beloved classic that continues to be enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
PREP/TOTAL TIME: 5 MIN.
MAKES: 1 SERVING
INGREDIENTS
- 1½ to 2 cups ice cubes
- 2 ounces light rum
- ¾ ounce Triple Sec
- ½ ounce lemon juice
- 1½ teaspoons lime juice
- 1½ teaspoons amaretto
FOR GARNISH:
- Lime slice and twist
INSTRUCTIONS
- Fill a shaker three-fourths full with ice. Place the remaining ice in a rocks glass and set it aside.
- Add the light rum, Triple Sec, lemon juice, lime juice, and amaretto to the shaker.
- Cover the shaker and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until condensation forms on the outside.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish the Mai Tai with a lime slice and a twist for added visual appeal.
- Serve and enjoy this tropical delight!
The Mai Tai is best enjoyed leisurely, allowing you to savor the refreshing flavors and transport yourself to a tropical oasis. Whether you’re hosting a tiki-themed party, lounging by the pool, or simply craving a taste of paradise, the Mai Tai is sure to satisfy your tropical cocktail desires. Cheers to the Mai Tai and the tropical escape it brings with every sip!
