Bloody Mary’s Recipe

Bloody Mary Cocktail

1. 1

   Rim the glass (optional)

   Rub the lemon wedge around the rim of a highball or pint glass. Dip the rim into a small plate of celery salt (or a mix of celery salt and smoked paprika) to coat. Set the glass aside.

2. 2

   Build the cocktail

   Fill a cocktail shaker or mixing glass halfway with ice cubes. Add 2 oz vodka, 4 oz tomato juice, 0.5 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp prepared horseradish, 3 dashes hot sauce, 0.25 tsp celery salt, a pinch of freshly ground black pepper, and 0.125 tsp smoked paprika (if using).

3. 3

   Mix

   Stir the mixture briskly for 15–20 seconds to chill and slightly dilute. Avoid shaking vigorously — stirring preserves the drink's texture and prevents tomato juice from foaming excessively.

4. 4

   Taste and adjust

   Taste a small amount and adjust seasoning to your preference: add more hot sauce for heat, more Worcestershire for umami, or more lemon for brightness. If the drink is too salty, add a splash more tomato juice; if too tart, add a touch more vodka or a small pinch of sugar.

5. 5

   Serve

   Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice if desired. Strain the cocktail from the shaker into the glass over the ice. Garnish with the celery stalk and lemon wedge. Serve immediately.