Orgeat
Also known as: almond syrup
A sweet almond-flavored syrup made from almonds, sugar, and often orange flower water, essential for tropical and classic cocktails.
Orgeat is a sweet almond-flavored syrup essential to tropical and classic cocktails. Pronounced or-zhat, this French syrup provides rich almond flavor with subtle floral notes that no substitute truly replicates. The name derives from the French word orge (barley), as early versions used barley water. Modern orgeat is made from almonds, sugar, and traditionally orange flower water or rose water. This combination creates a distinctively complex sweetener. Orgeat is essential for the Mai Tai - Trader Vic specifically created his famous cocktail to showcase the syrup. Without proper orgeat, the Mai Tai loses a crucial dimension. The almond richness balances lime acidity while orange flower water adds ethereal floral notes. Beyond tiki drinks, orgeat appears in classics like the Japanese Cocktail (brandy, orgeat, bitters) and the Army and Navy (gin, orgeat, lemon). The syrup works anywhere almond flavor complements other ingredients. Quality varies significantly among commercial orgeats. Many inexpensive brands use artificial almond extract, which tastes harsher than real almonds. Premium brands like Small Hand Foods and Liber and Co use actual almonds and orange flower water. The difference is noticeable. Making orgeat at home produces superior results. The basic method involves blanching almonds, processing them with water, straining, and adding sugar and orange flower water. Home orgeat tastes fresher and more almond-forward than most commercial versions. Orange flower water distinguishes quality orgeat. This distillation of bitter orange blossoms adds a haunting floral quality that lingers in the background. Without it, orgeat tastes flat and one-dimensional. Orange flower water is available at Middle Eastern grocery stores. Orgeat substitution is problematic. Amaretto provides almond flavor but adds significant alcohol and different sweetness. Almond extract is too harsh and artificial-tasting. For proper results, use real orgeat or make your own. Storage requires refrigeration since orgeat contains nut material that can spoil. Commercial versions with stabilizers last longer than homemade. Either way, keep refrigerated and use within a few months.
💡 Pro Tips
- Essential for authentic Mai Tais - do not skip it
- Orange flower water distinguishes quality orgeat
- Homemade versions taste significantly better than most commercial options
- Refrigerate after opening and use within a few months
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Substituting amaretto - it provides different flavor and adds alcohol
- Using artificial almond extract
- Skipping orange flower water when making homemade
- Storing at room temperature after opening
