If you’re not there yet, it’s time to add some ice and alcohol to those drinks, it’s BMT – Bloody Mary Time. Every Saturday at the beach starts the same way, Bloody Marys for everyone and some sweet juice drink for our brother who refuses to treat his tastebuds to the best brunch cocktail. Forget about him.
Today we’re (re)sharing our Bloody Mary basics because even if you’re not a fan, if you have any hope of charming the in-laws or being revered by your friends, this is pretty much all you got. Start simple by following the general guidelines in this post and then go big by infusing your own alcohol and crafting some Rosemary Vodka & Herb Bloody Marys at your next get together.
Mix up the following spices then rim each glass by running a lemon or lime along the edge before dipping it into the spice mixture.
- 1 tablespoon of celery salt
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons Old Bay
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Add 6-8oz of bloody mary mix and a shot (or two) of vodka to each glass. Then add a dash or a shake of the following, leaving out whatever doesn’t suit you. Give each glass a good stir and add a few ice cubes.
- Worcestershire sauce
- Clam juice
- Pickle juice
- Hot sauce (I use whatever is on hand, but Tapito is a great choice)
- Horseradish
- Ground pepper
- Cayenne
- Old Bay
- Celery salt
Now it’s garnish time and really, here’s your opportunity to play it low-key, pile it on, or experiment with something over the top. Here are a few garnish suggestions, but don’t feel pressured to do it all, coming up with your own unique combo is the way to go.
- Celery stick
- Pickle
- Bacon
- Pickled okra, green beans or some other veggie
- Olives
- Mozzarella balls
- Fried soft shell crab