Introduction: The Bloody Mary, a brunch classic that has stood the test of time, is the perfect cocktail to kickstart your day with a punch of flavor. While its origins are somewhat murky, it’s widely believed to have been created in the 1920s or 1930s, making it a true vintage favorite. The combination of bold, savory flavors and a hint of spiciness makes it a delightful morning or afternoon indulgence. So, let’s dive into this timeless recipe.

Preparation:

1. Prepare Your Glasses:

• Start by filling the highball glasses with ice cubes. This will chill the glasses and keep your Bloody Mary nice and cold.

2. Mix the Base:

• In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, lime juice, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery salt, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.

3. Shake It Up:

• Secure the lid on the cocktail shaker and shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This ensures that all the ingredients are well combined and creates a nice froth.

4. Strain and Serve:

• Using the strainer on your shaker, pour the Bloody Mary mix into the ice-filled highball glasses, leaving some space at the top for garnishes.

5. Add Garnishes:

• This is where you can get creative! Garnish your Bloody Mary with a celery stalk, pickles, olives, a strip of crispy bacon, and a lemon wedge. These garnishes not only enhance the flavor but make the drink visually appealing.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Present your savory spicy Bloody Mary to your brunch guests and watch their faces light up. It’s a delightful and invigorating way to start your day.

Historical Tidbit: The origins of the Bloody Mary are shrouded in mystery, but the cocktail’s popularity has only grown over the decades. Some credit the famous Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, where a bartender named Ferdinand “Pete” Petiot is said to have mixed up the first Bloody Mary in the 1920s. Others claim it was born in New York City. Regardless of where it started, it has become an iconic brunch cocktail enjoyed worldwide, with variations ranging from mild to fiery.

Now, raise your glass and toast to the enduring legacy of the Bloody Mary!

In the next article, we’ll delve into another culinary delight. Stay tuned!