Paul Kushner
The Sesame Mai Tai is a bold spin on the classic tiki drink, swapping out traditional orgeat for a savory, nutty tahini version. White rum, Jamaican rum, genever, and banana liqueur come together to build a layered, complex base. Lime juice cuts through the richness with just the right amount of brightness. It’s a creative take for anyone looking to try something different. Inspired by imbibemagazine.com.
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Tasting Notes
This Sesame Mai Tai is a twist on a Mai Tai leans nutty, tropical, and rich. The tahini orgeat brings a toasted sesame flavor that blends surprisingly well with banana liqueur and rum. Genever adds a malty base that gives the drink a fuller body than your typical tiki cocktail. You’ll pick up hints of ripe fruit, nuttiness, and a touch of spice, all tied together by the brightness of fresh lime. It finishes smooth, with a creamy texture and just enough acidity to keep it from feeling heavy. It’s unusual in the best way.
Equipment and Glassware
Grab a shaker, jigger, citrus press, and strainer for this one. A fine mesh strainer is helpful if your tahini orgeat has texture. A tiki mug or double rocks glass works best it’s sturdy and shows off the garnish. A bar spoon helps with layering flavors if you’re into that. Use a muddler if you want to mash mint into the base, but it’s optional. Chill your glass ahead of time so everything stays cool and crisp. No blender needed just shake well and serve with plenty of ice.
Ingredients
- 1 oz white rum
- ¼ oz Jamaican rum
- ½ oz genever
- ½ oz banana liqueur
- 1 oz tahini orgeat
- ¾ oz lime juice
- Garnish: mint, banana slices, black sesame seeds
Instructions
- Add all the liquid ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint, banana slices, and a pinch of black sesame seeds.
Pro Tips
- Stir your tahini orgeat well if it’s separated.
- Use a fine strainer if the orgeat or banana liqueur has pulp.
- Chill the glass to keep the texture clean and smooth.
- Clap the mint before garnishing to release its oils.
- Jamaican rum with funk (like Smith & Cross) adds great character.
- Toast sesame seeds before garnishing for stronger aroma.
- Add a pinch of salt if the drink feels too sweet or flat.
When to Serve
This Sesame Mai Tai works best when you want to serve something unique without going overboard. It’s great for summer nights, dinner parties, or any time your guests are ready for something outside the usual tropical drinks. The nutty and fruity notes pair well with grilled meats, spicy dishes, or salty bar snacks. If you’re hosting a themed cocktail night or just want to surprise someone with an unexpected flavor combo, this is a solid pick. It’s creative, but not fussy and the garnish really brings it together.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- White Rum: Plantation 3 Stars, Flor de Caña 4
- Jamaican Rum: Smith & Cross, Appleton Estate Signature
- Genever: Bols Genever is classic and easy to find
- Banana Liqueur: Giffard Banane du Brésil or Tempus Fugit
- Tahini Orgeat: Make your own or try specialty syrup brands
- Lime Juice: Always use freshly squeezed for brightness
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 oz white rum
- ¼ oz Jamaican rum
- ½ oz genever
- ½ oz banana liqueur
- 1 oz tahini orgeat
- ¾ oz lime juice
- Garnish: mint banana slices, black sesame seeds
Instructions
- Add all the liquid ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint, banana slices, and a pinch of black sesame seeds.
Notes
Pro Tips
- If you can’t find tahini orgeat, try blending tahini with traditional orgeat syrup for a similar effect.
- Chill your glass in the freezer before pouring to help keep the drink cold longer.
- Use a banana chip instead of fresh slices for a longer-lasting garnish.
