Bloody Maria Cocktails

Bloody Maria Cocktail

Ingredients (serves 1)

• 2 oz tequila (blanco or reposado)

• 4 oz tomato juice (or Clamato for a spicier, savory version)

• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice

• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice (optional for extra brightness)

• 1/2 to 1 tsp prepared horseradish (optional, to taste)

• 2–3 dashes hot sauce (Tabasco or your preferred hot sauce)

• 2–3 dashes Worcestershire sauce

• Pinch of smoked paprika or ground black pepper

• Pinch of celery salt (or regular salt) to taste

• Ice

Garnish (choose one or combine)

• Celery stalk

• Lime wedge or wheel

• Pickled vegetable (green bean, asparagus, okra) or pickle spear

• Cooked shrimp or bacon strip (for a more elaborate presentation)

• Cherry tomato or olive

Equipment

• Highball or Collins glass

• Jigger or measuring tool

• Spoon or stirrer

• Shaker (optional if you prefer to mix vigorously)

Method

1. Chill: Fill the glass with ice to chill while you measure.

2. Combine: In a shaker or mixing glass, add tequila, tomato juice, lime juice, (lemon juice if using), horseradish, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and a pinch of celery salt.

3. Mix: Add ice and shake briefly if using a shaker (5–8 seconds) or stir well for 10–15 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.

4. Serve: Dump ice from the chilled serving glass if you prefer, then fill with fresh ice and strain the mixture into the glass, or pour directly over the ice.

5. Garnish: Add your chosen garnishes and give one gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more hot sauce, Worcestershire, or salt as desired.

Variations and tips

• Bloody Maria Pitcher: Multiply ingredients by number of servings and prepare in a pitcher. Keep chilled and add ice to individual glasses when serving.

• Spicy Kick: Use a chili-infused tequila or increase hot sauce and horseradish.

• Smoky: Use mezcal instead of tequila for a smoky version.

• Low-alcohol: Use soda water to replace part of the tomato juice and reduce the tequila.

• Blend: For a thicker, brunch-style version, briefly pulse in a blender with ice for a slushy texture.

Nutrition (approximate per serving)

• Calories: ~150–220 depending on tequila and juice choices

• Alcohol: depends on tequila proof and serving size

Enjoy responsibly.