Mai Tai Recipe
The Chinese New Year starts with the Black Moon in December, and the Lunar New Year date changes annually. This year, it begins on January 29th. The lunar calendar, rooted in moon phases, inspired me to share my favorite cocktail to pair with Chinese food—the Mai Tai! My love for Mai Tais began “many moons ago,” thanks to my sister Laura.
We discovered our Mai Tai obsession during visits to the Golden Buddha, a Chinese restaurant in Lake Geneva. Sipping Mai Tais from pineapple-shaped cups alongside their delicious appetizer combo platter was a tradition that sparked my passion for perfecting this cocktail at home.
Let’s explore how to create this crave-worthy Mai Tai recipe to elevate your next celebration or dinner!
The Secret to a Perfect Mai Tai
Crafting a Mai Tai isn’t complicated, but it’s all about balance. My recipe is simple yet packed with tropical flavors that complement Chinese cuisine wonderfully.
The Essential Ingredients
- Rums: A blend of dark and white Bacardi, plus Malibu Rum for a sweet coconut touch.
- Cointreau and Grenadine: Add brightness and a touch of sweetness.
- Fruit Juices: Freshly squeezed lime and orange juice enhance the tropical vibes.
- Almond Extract or Orgeat Syrup: The secret ingredient! Almond extract might sound unusual, but it creates that unique, crave-worthy flavor.
How to Mix Your Mai Tai
Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s as easy as shaking and pouring. Here’s how:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the rums, Cointreau, grenadine, almond extract (or orgeat syrup), and fruit juices. Shake well.
- Pour the mixture over ice into a large rocks glass, Tiki cup, or pineapple-shaped glass.
The Finishing Touch: Garnish Like a Pro
A Mai Tai isn’t complete without a stunning garnish! Add a slice of orange, a pineapple wedge, and a maraschino cherry to make your cocktail Instagram-worthy and even more delicious.
Chinese New Year Appetizers to Pair with Your Mai Tai
No celebration is complete without delicious appetizers, and Chinese New Year is the perfect time to indulge! Pair your tropical Mai Tai with classic favorites like crispy Crab Rangoon or savory shrimp rolls.
The creamy filling of the Crab Rangoon and the delicate crunch of shrimp rolls create a mouthwatering combination that complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the Mai Tai. These appetizers are easy to prepare and elevate any gathering, making them ideal for your festive spread.
Cheers to the New Year with a Mai Tai
Whether you’re celebrating the Chinese New Year or simply enjoying a cozy night in with takeout, this Mai Tai recipe is sure to transport you to a tropical paradise.
Pair it with your favorite Chinese appetizers, and toast to a year filled with style, flavor, and good cheer.
Cheers!
Mai Tai
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 Oz Dark Rum
- 1 Oz White Rum
- 1/2 Oz Cointreau
- 1 Oz Malibu Rum
- 2 Oz Pineapple Juice
- 3 Drops Almond Extract (Or 1/2 oz Orgeat Syrup)
- 1 Splash Grenadine You could use syrup from the Marachino Cherry Jar
- 1 Big Squeeze Lime and Orange
Optional Garnish
- 1 Slice Orange
- 1 Slice Pineapple
- 1 Marachino Cherry
Instructions
- Fill a Cocktail Shaker with ice and add all three Rums, Cointreau, Almond Extract, Grenadine, and Juices and shake well
- Pour over ice in a large glass and garnish if desired
