Bloody Mary Cocktail Recipe

A Bloody Mary is more than just a cocktail; it’s a versatile classic with a rich history and an array of ingredients that cater to varied tastes. The main keyword is Bloody Mary, and this iconic drink is beloved for its unique balance of savory flavors and its reputation as the ultimate brunch companion.

Creating a Bloody Mary involves a few staple ingredients. You will need:

Vodka
Tomato juice
Lemon juice
Worcestershire sauce
Hot sauce
Celery salt
Ground black pepper
Horseradish (optional)

Garnishes can elevate your Bloody Mary experience. Classic options include celery stalk, bacon, pickles, cherry tomatoes, and green olives. Whether you’re nursing a hangover or simply enjoying a leisurely brunch, this cocktail can be customized to fit your preference.

Equipment

To make a Bloody Mary, you’ll need a few key items:

Shaker: For mixing the ingredients together.
Highball glass: To serve the cocktail.
Bar spoon: To stir the cocktail.
Measuring jigger: For accurate measurements.
Strainer: To remove ice and large ingredients after shaking.
Garnish stick: To hold garnishes.

Having the right tools ensures your cocktail is well-mixed and presented beautifully.

Ingredients

The ingredients for a classic Bloody Mary are:

2 oz vodka
4 oz tomato juice
1/2 oz lemon juice
1/2 oz lime juice
2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
2 dashes Tabasco sauce
1 tsp horseradish (optional)
Celery salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Garnishes: celery stalk, olives, lemon wedge

These ingredients create a balance of flavors that are savory, tangy, and slightly spicy.

Instructions

Follow these steps to craft your Bloody Mary:

Roll the rim of a highball glass in lemon juice, then celery salt.
Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
In a shaker, combine vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, horseradish, celery salt, and black pepper.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake gently.
Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
Garnish with a celery stalk, olives, and a lemon wedge.

Enjoy your Bloody Mary with a selection of tasty garnishes.

Tasting Notes

A well-made Bloody Mary is rich and complex. You should notice the savory tomato juice, the zesty lemon and lime, and the spicy kick from the Tabasco and horseradish. The Worcestershire sauce adds depth, while the celery salt and black pepper enhance the overall flavor. The garnishes offer a fresh, crisp contrast.

Similar Cocktails

If you enjoy a Bloody Mary, you might also like:

Bloody Caesar: With clamato juice instead of tomato juice.
Michelada: A Mexican beer-based cocktail with similar spices.
Red Snapper: A gin-based version of the Bloody Mary.
Virgin Mary: Non-alcoholic Bloody Mary.

These variations offer different takes on the classic Bloody Mary flavor profile.

History

The Bloody Mary has an interesting history. It is believed to have been invented in the 1920s or 1930s. Some credit Fernand Petiot, a bartender in Paris, for its creation. The drink was named “Bloody Mary” supposedly in reference to Queen Mary I of England or a Chicago waitress named Mary. Its rich history adds to the cocktail’s charm and enduring appeal.

Quick Pro Tips

Adjust Spice Levels: Personalize the heat by varying the amount of Tabasco or horseradish.
Garnish Creatively: Beyond the classic celery and olives, try bacon, pickles, or shrimp.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon and lime juice make a significant difference.
Chill Your Glass: A chilled glass keeps your drink cool longer.