Drink Recipe:: Mai Tai

Today, I'm excited to talk to you about one of my favorite cocktails of all time: the Mai Tai.

Originating from the beautiful islands of Hawaii, the Mai Tai is a tropical cocktail that's as delicious as it is beautiful. Its history is shrouded in mystery and controversy, with many claiming to be the creator of this timeless classic. However, it is widely accepted that Victor J. Bergeron, better known as Trader Vic, invented the Mai Tai in the 1940s at his bar in Oakland, California.

The Mai Tai is a complex cocktail that requires a careful balance of sweet, sour, and boozy flavors. Here are the ingredients you'll need to make a classic Mai Tai:

• 2 oz dark rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• ½ oz orange curaçao
• ½ oz orgeat syrup
• ¼ oz simple syrup
• Mint sprig and lime wheel, for garnish

To make the cocktail, simply shake all the ingredients together with ice and strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a mint sprig and lime wheel, and voila! You have a delicious Mai Tai.

When it comes to who makes the best Mai Tai, there are countless contenders. However, one name that often pops up is Beachbum Berry, a Tiki historian and cocktail expert who has spent years researching and perfecting the art of the Mai Tai. You can find his recipe and tips on his website, beachbumberry.com.

In terms of pairings, I like to enjoy a Mai Tai with some spicy Asian cuisine. The sweet and sour flavors of the cocktail complement the heat of the food, making for a perfect match. You could also try pairing it with some fresh seafood, such as sushi or ceviche, for a lighter option.

So there you have it, folks: the Mai Tai, a classic tropical cocktail that's sure to transport you to the sunny shores of Hawaii. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!