Bloody Maria Recipe

Bloody Maria Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

  • 1/2 teaspoon chile lime seasoning (such as Tajin)
  • 4 fluid ounces tomato juice
  • 2 fluid ounces tequila
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 dashes hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
  • 1/2 teaspoon prepared horseradish
  • 1/4 teaspoon celery seed

Directions

  1. Place Tajin on a plate. Moisten the rim of a glass with a lime wedge. Press the moistened rim into Tajin to coat it. Set the glass aside.
  2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add tomato juice, tequila, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, horseradish, and celery seed.
  3. Shake the cocktail shaker until the outside becomes frosted, indicating the ingredients are well chilled and mixed.
  4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass, ensuring a smooth pour without any ice or pulp.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving:

  • Calories: 158
  • Fat: 1g (1% Daily Value)
  • Saturated Fat: 0g (0% Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 706mg (31% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 6g (2% Daily Value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
  • Total Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 1g (3% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin C: 88mg (98% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 44mg (3% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 1mg (8% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 318mg (7% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Bloody Maria is a variation of the famous Bloody Mary cocktail, and it brings a unique twist by replacing vodka with tequila. This iconic cocktail has become a favorite among those who enjoy savory drinks, especially at brunch or as a hangover remedy. Lets dive into its fascinating origin, regional variations, and its place in cocktail culture.

History of the Bloody Maria

The Bloody Maria emerged in the 1960s, just a few years after the creation of the Bloody Mary. While the exact origin of the Bloody Mary is still debated, its widely believed to have been invented in the 1920s by bartender Fernand Petiot at Harrys New York Bar in Paris. The Bloody Maria, however, was crafted later as an alternative for those who wanted something with more complexity, incorporating the smoky, earthy flavors of tequila in place of the traditional vodka. The tequila twist provided a deeper, more robust flavor, perfectly complementing the spiciness of the tomato juice and seasonings. Its rise in popularity can be attributed to the growing interest in tequila-based cocktails during the 1960s and 1970s.

Regional Variations

Like many cocktails, the Bloody Maria varies from region to region, particularly in Mexico where tequila originates. In Mexico, the cocktail might be served with a larger selection of local spices and garnishes, such as cilantro, lime wedges, and even a slice of avocado. In some variations, people substitute the hot sauce with a more traditional Mexican chili paste for an extra kick. The drink is also sometimes served in a larger glass with additional garnishes like olives, pickles, or a rim of chili powder. These regional twists highlight the versatility of the Bloody Maria, making it an adaptable drink that can be personalized according to local tastes.

How Does the Bloody Maria Differ from the Bloody Mary?

The Bloody Maria shares a very similar base with the Bloody Mary, but the key difference is the use of tequila instead of vodka. This substitution makes the Bloody Maria more aromatic and full-bodied, with a smoky undertone that distinguishes it from its vodka cousin. While the Bloody Mary can have a cleaner, crisper taste due to vodkas neutrality, the Bloody Maria has a more robust flavor profile that pairs well with the rich, spicy ingredients. Additionally, the Bloody Maria often uses a seasoning like Tajn (a chili-lime powder) for the rim, whereas the Bloody Mary typically employs celery salt or other savory seasonings.

Where is the Bloody Maria Typically Served?

Bloody Marias are a popular choice for brunch or late-morning gatherings, much like their vodka counterpart, the Bloody Mary. Youll often find this cocktail on the menu at trendy brunch spots, especially those focusing on Mexican cuisine or cocktails with tequila. Its also a favorite at beachside bars, pool parties, and even in some upscale lounges. In Mexico, the Bloody Maria is commonly served with a side of tacos or nachos, complementing the bold flavors of the drink with savory bites. Given its unique spice and flavor combination, it also pairs well with grilled meats and seafood.

Interesting Facts About the Bloody Maria

  • The Bloody Maria is often called "the hangover cure" due to its combination of tomato juice (which is rich in antioxidants) and alcohol, which many believe helps alleviate hangover symptoms.
  • The drinks origin story is often linked to the famous bartender, Pete Petiot, who was known for his flair in creating flavorful, unique cocktails.
  • The Bloody Maria is one of the few tequila-based cocktails that gained widespread popularity in the United States, despite tequila's origins being primarily in Mexico.
  • In some areas, especially in the U.S., the Bloody Maria has become a staple of Sunday brunch menus, often served with a variety of garnishes such as bacon, shrimp, or even sliders.

Conclusion

Whether you're a tequila aficionado or simply looking to try something new, the Bloody Maria offers a delicious alternative to the classic Bloody Mary. With its spicy, savory flavors and smooth tequila base, its a drink thats perfect for any occasion, especially when paired with good company and a tasty brunch. So, next time you're in the mood for something bold and savory, try making a Bloody Mariait's sure to spice up your day!

FAQ about Bloody Maria Recipe

A Bloody Maria is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cocktail mix (without ice) in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s recommended to prepare it just before serving to enjoy the freshest taste and best texture.

Yes, you can substitute the tequila with vodka to make a traditional Bloody Mary. You could also experiment with other spirits, but tequila gives this drink its signature taste.

Yes, you can easily make a non-alcoholic version by omitting the tequila and adding extra tomato juice. This creates a flavorful, savory mocktail that still retains the spices and zest of the original recipe.

Tomato juice and Worcestershire sauce should last for several months in your pantry if unopened. Once opened, store tomato juice in the fridge and consume within 7–10 days. Tequila, hot sauce, and horseradish will last much longer—typically several months to a year in a cool, dry place.

Yes, you can adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce, depending on your preference. You can also experiment with different types of hot sauce for varying levels of spiciness.

Yes, you can prepare the rim by applying the chile lime seasoning in advance. Just store the prepared glasses in the fridge, and they'll be ready to serve when you're ready to assemble your Bloody Maria.

If you don't have Tajin, you can make your own seasoning by mixing chili powder, salt, and lime zest. This will give you a similar flavor, though Tajin adds a unique tang and spice that’s hard to replicate exactly.

The lime juice adds a fresh, zesty flavor, but you can increase or decrease it based on your taste. Start with the recommended amount and add more if you prefer a tangier drink.

Yes, you can scale this recipe up to make a larger batch. Just adjust the quantities accordingly. Keep in mind that the glass rim preparation might need to be done per serving.

A highball glass or a pint glass is typically used for serving a Bloody Maria. The tall glass gives you enough room to add ice and all the ingredients while leaving space for garnishes.