Bloody-gosh Mary Recipe

Prepare rim

Pour the coarse smoked salt (or celery salt) onto a small plate. Run a lemon wedge around the top rim of a tall highball or pint glass to moisten. Dip the rim into the salt and twist to coat evenly. Set the glass aside.

Fill the rimmed glass with large ice cubes and set aside while you mix the cocktail to keep it cold.

Combine base ingredients

In a mixing pitcher or mason jar, add 2 cups tomato juice, 1/2 cup Clamato, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish.

Season and spice

Add 6 dashes hot sauce, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon celery salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt. Stir vigorously for 20–30 seconds to dissolve the seasonings and integrate the horseradish; taste and adjust heat/salt to preference (add more hot sauce or horseradish for extra bite).

Chill and marry flavors

Let the mixture sit in the fridge for 5–10 minutes if time allows so flavors meld. If you prefer a lightly frothy texture, give the mixture a quick 10–15 second shake in a cocktail shaker without ice (dry shake) before adding spirit.

Add spirit

Pour 3 oz vodka into the chilled, rimmed glass over the ice.

Combine

Pour the prepared spicy tomato base into the glass over the vodka and ice, leaving a little headroom (about 1/2 inch). Use a long spoon or bar spoon to gently roll the drink once or twice — do not vigorously stir; you want it blended but slightly layered.

Final seasoning

Taste and finish with an extra dash of hot sauce, a squeeze of lemon or lime wedge to brighten, or a pinch more celery salt if desired. Sprinkle a small pinch (about 1/8 teaspoon) cracked black pepper on top.

Skewer a celery stalk, a cornichon or pickle spear, 2 cocktail shrimp and 3 cherry tomatoes (if using) on a long cocktail pick and rest across the top of the glass. Add a lemon wedge and lime wedge on the rim for serving.

Serve immediately with a straw and an extra napkin; advise guests to stir once before drinking to reincorporate any settled seasoning.