Mai Tai — A classic Tiki cocktail with a tropical twist 🍹🌺🏝️

The Mai Tai is an iconic Tiki cocktail from the Caribbean, steeped in rich history and tropical flavor. This drink, a perfect blend of rum, almond syrup, lime juice, and orange liqueur, offers a balanced, complex taste, evoking a sunny island paradise. Its name, which means "great!" in Tahitian, symbolizes the drink's exceptional blend and delicious flavor. I highly recommend it to Hong Kongers who appreciate a rich yet refreshing flavor. It's perfect for summer and parties, and a must-have to warm up the atmosphere.

Mai Tai's classic recipe

• 30ml light rum

• 30ml golden or aged rum (Jamaican or Martinique aged rum is recommended)

• 15ml Curacao orange liqueur (or Cointreau)

• Almond syrup (Orgeat) 15 ml

• 15ml fresh lime juice

• pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, and mint leaves for garnish

Mai Tai Recipe

1. Prepare a shaker and add all liquid ingredients and ice cubes.

2. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill.

3. Strain the shaken liquor into a whiskey glass or Tiki glass filled with crushed ice.

4. Garnish with pineapple slices, cherries and mint leaves for a tropical look.

Taste and flavor characteristics

The Mai Tai boasts a balanced sweet and sour taste, perfect for those who enjoy complex cocktails. The unique nutty aroma of the almond syrup paired with the refreshing acidity of the lime juice is the soul of the drink. The sweetness of the rum and the citrus notes of the orange liqueur combine perfectly, creating a fruity, candy-like flavor on the palate, though the alcoholic note is noticeable, making it a bit of a heady drink. I find the Mai Tai's passionate, yet relaxed flavor perfect for enjoying during Hong Kong's sweltering summer days.

Editor's Tips

• Selecting high-quality rum is the key to making a good drink, especially aged rum which can bring out a richer flavor.

• The almond syrup Orgeat must be authentic, it is the secret weapon that makes Mai Tai different.

• Fresh lime juice brings the wine to life, so don't use bottled juice instead.

• You can put some thought into the decorations to make the drink more tropical and suitable for taking photos and sharing.

• Although this wine is sweet, the balance of acidity and aroma suits most Asian palates.

The Mai Tai isn't just a symbol of tropical charm; it's a classic and irreplaceable drink in Tiki bartending. Enjoy a Mai Tai after work or at a party, letting it imbue your life with a touch of sunshine and passion, injecting a touch of beautiful island flavor into your life. Let your mood soar with the aroma! 🌴🍹☀️