Mabi Cocktail Recipe

The Mabi cocktail is a traditional drink from the Caribbean, specifically the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. It's made from the bark of the Mabi tree (also known as the soldierwood tree) and is often fermented to create a natural, sweet, and slightly fizzy drink. It's a popular choice for those who enjoy unique, natural flavors and a touch of Caribbean culture.

• The Mabi tree is native to the Caribbean and its bark has been used for centuries in traditional medicine.
• The drink was traditionally fermented in clay pots, giving it a unique flavor profile.
• It's a popular choice for celebrations and gatherings, adding a tropical touch to any event.

The Mabi cocktail is sweet, slightly fizzy, and has a unique earthy flavor from the Mabi tree bark. It's refreshing, with a natural sweetness and a hint of citrus.

• The Mabi tree bark is believed to have medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
• In some regions, Mabi is also known as 'Mauby' or 'Mavi'.
• The fermentation process of the Mabi drink can take from a few days to several weeks, depending on the desired level of fizziness and sweetness.

1. Boil the Mabi tree bark in water for about 30 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture and add the brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Let the mixture cool, then add the lemon juice and rum (if using).
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy your Mabi cocktail!

• For a stronger flavor, let the Mabi tree bark steep for longer before straining.
• For a fizzier drink, let the mixture ferment for a few days before adding the lemon juice and rum.
• Serve the Mabi cocktail over ice for a refreshing summer drink.

Food Pairings

• Grilled Seafood: The subtle smokiness from grilled seafood such as shrimp or fish will complement the earthy notes of the Mabi bark.
• Spicy Dishes: The sweetness of the brown sugar and the refreshing lemon will help balance out the heat from spicy Caribbean or Latin dishes.
• Fruit Desserts: Savor your Mabi Cocktail alongside a tropical fruit dessert, like a mango tart or pineapple sorbet, to match the rum and citrus flavors.

Drink Pairings

• Sparkling Water: A simple side of sparkling water will cleanse the palate between sips without overshadowing the complex flavors of the cocktail.
• Iced Tea: Opt for a glass of unsweetened iced tea; its tannins can draw parallels with the earthiness of the Mabi bark.
• Coffee: A hearty, robust coffee makes for a great non-alcoholic pairing, especially if you're enjoying the Mabi Cocktail as a dessert drink.

• If you can't find Mabi tree bark, you can use sarsaparilla root or birch bark as a substitute.
• You can replace the brown sugar with honey or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.
• If you want to make a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum.

Spiced Mabi Cocktail

Ingredients: Mabi Bark, Water, Brown Sugar, Lemon Juice, Spiced Rum

1. Boil the Mabi bark as usual and mix with sugar.
2. Once cooled, add freshly squeezed lemon juice.
3. Stir in 2 oz of spiced rum for a warm, cozy twist.
4. The spicy notes will draw out the earthy Mabi flavors, like putting on a sweater during a cool evening.

Herbal Mabi Fizz

Ingredients: Mabi Bark, Water, Honey, Lime Juice, Gin

1. Replace brown sugar with honey and lemon juice with lime.
2. After cooling, add 2 oz of gin for a botanical kick.
3. Top with tonic water for a fizzy, herbal reinvention.
4. It's like a garden party in your mouth, with every sip smoother than a butterfly's landing.

Mabi Margarita

Ingredients: Mabi Bark, Water, Agave Syrup, Lime Juice, Tequila

1. Swap the brown sugar for agave syrup to lean into the margarita mindset.
2. Use lime juice to complement the tequila.
3. Blend the cooled mixture with ice and 2 oz of tequila for a frosty treat.
4. This twist is a vacation in a glass, taking your senses on a trip to a beach with a breezy, tropical vibe.