Crimson Mary

Ingredients

Ice

1/2 ounces vodka

8 ounces chilled tomato juice

1/4 ounce fresh lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (adjust to taste)

Salt

Freshly ground pepper

1 celery stalk and 1 lemon wedge for garnishing

Preparation Method

Begin by filling a chilled Collins glass with ice cubes. Pour in the vodka, followed by the tomato juice, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to combine.

Season your cocktail with a pinch of salt and a dash of freshly ground pepper according to your taste preferences. Finally, add a crunchy celery stick and a lemon wedge to the rim for that classic touch.

A Timeless Classic

While often celebrated during spirited brunches, the Bloody Mary can be savored at any hour. This cocktail has a versatility that allows for creative opportunities, like adding extravagant garnishes, incorporating savory miso, or enhancing the flavor with a splash of sweet Aperol and a hint of Thai chili. Nevertheless, the traditional recipe remains a refreshing staple. "A Bloody Mary is basically a tomato soup with a kick," shares Craig Schoettler, beverage director at MGM Resorts International, emphasizing that the perfect balance of salt is crucial in the mix.

The Ideal Recipe

This recipe captures the essence of a classic Bloody Mary, balancing the robust tomato flavor with bright lemon, savory Worcestershire, and a splash of heat from Tabasco. The delightful outcome is pure perfection. Dip a crunchy celery stick into your glass and enjoy the experience. — Lucy Simon

Alcohol-Free Adaptations

A well-crafted Bloody Mary is enjoyable whether or not it contains vodka. Think of it as a rich, savory mocktail; for those who prefer a different spirit, gin or tequila are excellent substitutes. When opting for tequila—as in the Bloody Maria—replace lemon with a squeeze of lime for an exciting twist. If you're after a lighter option, try topping your Bloody Mary mix with a light lager to create a tomato-centric Michelada.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

If you prefer to keep your Bloody Mary garnish simple, transforming this drink into a vegetarian or vegan delight is effortless. Just skip the Worcestershire sauce, which commonly contains anchovies, and substitute it with a splash of high-quality soy sauce to maintain that essential salty, fermented flair.

Perfect for Gatherings

The Bloody Mary is an ideal choice for entertaining. This recipe is easily scalable—tip: a batch for six conveniently clears out a full bottle of tomato juice. Prepare the mix in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for optimal freshness. For the best flavor, consume the mix within four days of preparation. Just add vodka and serve over ice at the last moment for a truly delightful experience.