Tia Mia Recipe: A Tropical Twist on the Classic Mai Tai

What makes it so special? It’s the way it blends Mexican and Caribbean flavors into something magical. The smoky kick from mezcal, the sweetness from orgeat, and the brightness of citrus all come together to create a drink that will have your taste buds celebrating. This masterpiece was created by Ivy Mix, the brilliant bartender behind Brooklyn’s Leyenda.

Now, let’s talk about how you can make this delicious cocktail at home. I’ll walk you through the steps, share some handy tips, and even suggest ways to make it your own. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, the Tia Mia is a cocktail that’s guaranteed to impress. Ready to shake things up? Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Tia Mia

Let’s talk about what makes the Tia Mia so good. Every ingredient in this drink has a purpose, and when they all come together, it’s pure magic. I’ll break it down so you know exactly why each one deserves its spot in the mix.

Mezcal

Mezcal brings that smoky and earthy flavor that makes the Tia Mia stand out. If you want the best results, I recommend using a joven mezcal. This just means it’s young, and brands like Del Maguey Vida or Montelobos are perfect because they’re balanced and not too overpowering.

One thing I’ve learned? Always look for mezcal made from 100% agave. The quality and flavor are unbeatable, and it really makes the drink shine.

Jamaican Rum

Jamaican rum adds this rich, funky layer that takes the cocktail to the next level. It has a bold character that blends beautifully with the mezcal. If you’re not sure where to start, try Appleton Estate or Smith and Cross.

Here’s the fun part. Jamaican rum gets its unique flavor, called "hogo", from a longer fermentation process. It has fruity and sometimes almost savory notes that make it interesting and complex. This complexity is what makes it a perfect match for the smokiness of mezcal.

Fresh Lime Juice

Fresh lime juice is a must for our Tia Mia. We always squeeze our limes right before mixing. It gives the drink that bright and zesty kick that bottled juice just cannot deliver.

If you’re wondering how much lime you’ll need, one medium lime usually gives about 1 ounce of juice. That is exactly what you need for a single Tia Mia. Avoid sweetened lime juices or concentrates. They can mess up the delicate balance of flavors in the drink.

Orgeat Syrup

Orgeat syrup is like the secret weapon of the Tia Mia. This almond-based syrup adds a touch of sweetness and a rich, nutty flavor that rounds everything out. It is like the ingredient you never knew you needed, but once you try it, you will not want to make cocktails without it.

If you cannot find orgeat at the store, no worries. Making it at home is actually pretty simple. Just simmer equal parts water, sugar, and sliced almonds for a few minutes, let it cool, then strain. Add a tiny splash of orange flower water, and you’ve got homemade orgeat.

Orange Curaçao

Orange curaçao is what ties the whole drink together. It adds a hint of sweetness and a citrusy kick that balances the mezcal and rum. My go-to is Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao because it tastes natural and not overly sweet.

If you do not have curaçao, triple sec or Cointreau will work too. Just keep in mind they are a bit sweeter, so you might need to adjust the other ingredients slightly.

Garnishes

No Tia Mia is complete without a little garnish. A fresh mint sprig, a lime wheel, and if you want to get fancy, an edible orchid, make the drink look and smell amazing.

The mint is not just for looks. It adds a fresh aroma that makes the first sip even better. The lime wheel brings a little extra citrus zing, and the orchid? It is just a fun way to give the drink that tiki vibe.

How to Make the Tia Mia Cocktail

Let’s talk about how to make a Tia Mia. It is simple, fun, and tastes amazing. Once you try it, you will want to make it again and again.

First, gather your tools. You will need a cocktail shaker. If you do not have one, no worries. A mason jar with a tight lid works just as well. You will also need a jigger to measure your ingredients and a strainer to pour the drink smoothly.

Now, it is time to start mixing. Add all the liquid ingredients to the shaker, then toss in some ice. Fill the shaker about halfway so the drink gets chilled without being watered down.

Next, give it a good shake. Shake it like you are excited about this cocktail, for about 10 to 15 seconds. This blends all the flavors perfectly and makes sure the drink is nice and cold.

When you are done shaking, strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. If you have large ice cubes, even better. They melt more slowly and keep the drink from getting diluted too fast.

For the finishing touch, garnish your drink with a lime wheel and an edible orchid. The lime wheel adds a pop of color and a refreshing citrus aroma, while the orchid takes the presentation up a notch. It gives the drink a tropical, elegant vibe that makes it feel extra special.

Enjoy your Tia Mia, and get ready to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you! 🍹

Variations on the Tia Mia Recipe

Let’s switch things up and have some fun with the Tia Mia. Whether you’re craving something spicy, tropical, or a little lighter, there’s a variation here to match your mood.

Spicy Tia Mia
If you like a drink with a bit of a kick, this one is for you. Swap your regular mezcal for chili-infused mezcal. The heat adds a fiery edge that really wakes up your taste buds. It’s bold, exciting, and perfect for anyone who loves a little spice.

Tropical Tia Mia
Want to feel like you’re on a beach somewhere? Add a splash of pineapple juice to your Tia Mia. It brings a juicy, tropical vibe that pairs beautifully with the smoky mezcal. This one is perfect for sipping by the pool or dreaming of your next vacation.

Low-Alcohol Tia Mia
Looking for a lighter option? Cut back on the mezcal and rum. To keep the flavors balanced, add a little extra lime juice or top it with a splash of soda water. It’s super refreshing and perfect if you want something easy to sip.

Get Creative
Feeling adventurous? Play around with different syrups and liqueurs. Switch out the orgeat for vanilla syrup if you want something warm and sweet, or ginger syrup if you’re in the mood for a little spice. For a citrus twist, try Grand Marnier instead of orange curaçao.

The great thing about the Tia Mia is how flexible it is. Start with these ideas, taste as you go, and tweak it to make it your own. Have fun experimenting and finding your perfect version. Cheers to your next favorite cocktail!

For more creative cocktail ideas, check out these recipes featuring orgeat syrup, like the Best Orgeat Cocktails, Fog Cutter Cocktail, or the tropical Zombie Cocktail. Looking for more smoky or Tiki-style drinks? Try the Hurricane or Saturn Cocktail. Explore and discover your next favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a Tia Mia and a Mai Tai?

The Tia Mia takes everything you love about a Mai Tai and adds a smoky, earthy twist. Instead of sticking to just rum, it swaps some of it out for mezcal. That simple switch completely transforms the flavor, giving it a depth that feels rich and unique. It’s like combining Mexican and Caribbean vibes in one delicious drink.

Can I substitute mezcal with tequila?

You totally can, but it will change the flavor quite a bit. Mezcal’s smoky character is what makes the Tia Mia stand out. If you go with tequila, I recommend using a reposado or añejo. These aged tequilas bring a bit of complexity that can work really well. Just keep in mind, tequila gives a cleaner, smoother flavor, so it won’t have that signature smokiness.

How strong is the Tia Mia?

The Tia Mia is similar in strength to other classic cocktails like the Mai Tai, sitting at around 20-25% alcohol. It’s got a bit of a punch, but thanks to the balance of flavors, it goes down super smooth. Just be mindful while sipping. It’s one of those drinks that can sneak up on you.

What food pairings work well with a Tia Mia cocktail?

The Tia Mia shines with dishes that play off its smoky and citrusy flavors. Tropical bites like pineapple or mango are a great match. Spicy foods work beautifully too—think tacos, enchiladas, or even a loaded plate of nachos. If you’re in the mood for barbecue, the smoky flavors in the drink and the food are a perfect combo. For lighter snacks, guacamole or roasted nuts are great options that complement the drink’s nutty notes from the orgeat syrup.

Tia Mia Cocktail Recipe

The Tia Mia is not your typical Mai Tai. It takes everything you love about the classic and gives it a smoky, bold twist. Mezcal and Jamaican rum team up with orange curaçao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup to create a cocktail that’s sweet, sour, smoky, and absolutely delicious. If you love a drink with layers of flavor, this one is for you.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Cocktails, Drinks

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 1

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Hawthorne Strainer
• Fine mesh Strainer
• Rocks glass
• Citrus juicer

Ingredients

  

• 1 oz Mezcal
• 1 oz Jamaican Rum
• 1/2 oz Orange Curaçao
• 3/4 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1/2 oz Orgeat Syrup
• Garnish: Mint sprig
• Garnish: Lime wheel
• Garnish: Edible orchid optional

Instructions

 

• Fill your shaker with ice.
• Add the mezcal, Jamaican rum, orange curaçao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup.
• Shake it really well for about 10 to 15 seconds. This gets everything cold and mixes those flavors beautifully.
• Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice.
• Strain the cocktail into your glass.
• Add your garnishes—a sprig of mint, a lime wheel, and an edible orchid if you want to wow your guests.
• Give it a quick stir with your bar spoon to bring it all together.
• Enjoy your homemade Tia Mia!

Notes

• Start with a little less orgeat syrup and adjust as you go. Too much can make the drink overly sweet.
• Lime juice is key to balancing the flavors, so don’t skip it or skimp on it.
• Try a few different mezcals and rums to find the combination you love most. Each brand has its own unique flavor.

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