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A vibrant featured image showcasing the classic cocktail, Bloody Mary, with celery and lime garnish.

Ultimate Bloody Mary

This ultimate Bloody Mary recipe is a symphony of flavors, balancing umami, acidity, heat, and texture for a truly exceptional brunch cocktail. It features a rich tomato base, savory spices, and a customizable array of garnishes, transforming it into an edible appetizer and drink in one.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Brunch, Cocktail
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 48 oz high-quality tomato juice
  • 4 oz vodka or gin, tequila, or aquavit
  • 2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1-2 tbsp prepared horseradish
  • 1 tsp celery salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 4 dashes Tabasco sauce
  • 2 dashes celery bitters optional
  • 1 tbsp olive juice optional
  • 1 oz Clamato juice optional
  • Ic e
  • Celery stalks
  • Lemon wedges
  • Lime wedges
  • Green olives
  • Black olives
  • Stuffed olives
  • Pickled asparagus
  • Pickled green beans
  • Pickled okra
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Bacon strips
  • Cooked shrimp
  • Cheese cubes
  • Pepperoni sticks
  • Pickle s
  • Spicy pickled green beans

Equipment

  • Large pitcher
  • Tall glasses
  • Ice cube trays
  • Cocktail picks or skewers
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Stirring spoon

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Bloody Mary Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the tomato juice, vodka, lemon juice, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, celery salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), smoked paprika, Tabasco sauce, celery bitters (if using), olive juice (if using) and Clamato juice (if using).
  2. Mix Well: Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably an hour, to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Prepare the Glasses: Fill two tall glasses with ice.
  5. Pour: Pour the Bloody Mary mix into the glasses.
  6. Garnish: Skewer your favorite items onto cocktail picks and arrange them artfully in and around the glasses.
  7. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your masterpiece!

Notes

For a richer flavor, use a vegetable juice blend instead of just tomato juice. Adjust the amount of horseradish and hot sauce to your spice preference. Experiment with different garnishes to create your own signature Bloody Mary. For optimal flavor, chill the mix for at least an hour before serving. Use good ice, otherwise it will melt quickly.