Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (475 ml) good quality tomato juice
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) prepared horseradish
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) celery salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) hot sauce, such as Tabasco (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) smoked paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 ounces (60 ml) vodka
  • 4 ounces (120 ml) spiced tomato base
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • Ice cubes
  • Celery stalk
  • Lemon wedge
  • Lime wedge
  • Pickled green beans
  • Olives
  • Bacon strip
  • Pickled okra
  • Shrimp
  • Jalapeño slices

Instructions:

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the tomato juice, water, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, celery salt, black pepper, hot sauce, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Let cool.
  2. Chill the spiced tomato base in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld. You can also use a store-bought Bloody Mary mix at this stage.
  3. Fill your tall glass with ice.
  4. In a cocktail shaker (or the glass), combine the vodka, spiced tomato base (or Bloody Mary mix), and lemon juice.
  5. If using a shaker, add ice and shake vigorously until well-chilled. If using the glass, stir well for the bloody mary.
  6. If you prefer a smoother drink, strain the mixture into the ice-filled glass.
  7. Add your desired garnishes. Get wild!
  8. Serve Immediately and enjoy your bloody mary!