The Bloody Maria is a bold, savory cocktail that brings a spicy twist to a brunch favorite. By swapping vodka for tequila, you get a drink that’s earthy, zesty, and full of character-perfect for lazy weekend mornings or a casual evening with friends. I’ve made this drink countless times, and I always come back to it when I want something with a little kick and a lot of flavor.
Bloody Maria Verde
Ingredients
Serves: 1 drink
Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
– 2 oz (60 ml) tequila (blanco or silver works best)
– 4 oz (120 ml) tomato juice (low-sodium or homemade if you prefer)
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
– 1 tsp (5 ml) prepared horseradish
– 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
– 2 dashes hot sauce (adjust to taste)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Ice cubes
– Garnishes (pick what you like): celery stalk, lime wedge, green olives, pickled jalapeños, cucumber spear, or even crispy bacon
Glass: Highball or Mason jar
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the tequila, tomato juice, fresh lime juice, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
- Season with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper.
- Shake it well-about 15 seconds-until everything’s chilled and mixed.
- Fill your glass with fresh ice and strain the drink over it.
- Garnish with whatever you love. A lime wedge and celery stalk are classic, but don’t be afraid to get creative.
Tips
– Always use fresh lime juice. It really brightens the drink.
– The amount of horseradish and hot sauce is totally up to you. Start small-you can always add more if you like it spicier.
– Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink nice and cold.
– If you’re making a few, mix a batch (minus the ice) in a pitcher and keep it in the fridge. Stir before serving over ice.
Make-Ahead Note
You can mix everything (except ice and garnishes) and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just shake or stir well before serving.
Substitutions & Variations
– No tomato juice? Try carrot juice for a sweeter version or beet juice for something earthier.
– Want more heat? Add a slice of fresh jalapeño or a splash of chili-infused tequila.
– Watching sugar or carbs? Use fresh tomato juice and skip sugary garnishes like pickled onions.
– For a smoky twist, swap the tequila for mezcal.
– Garnish ideas: pickled green beans, grilled shrimp, pepperoncini, or a mini slider (yes, really!).
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail shines at brunch, but it’s also great with:
Brunch Favorites
– Huevos rancheros
– Breakfast burritos
– Savory waffles with bacon
Appetizers
– Spicy nachos
– Deviled eggs
– Jalapeño poppers
Seafood
– Shrimp cocktail
– Fish tacos
– Grilled scallops
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-cocktail bites: a grilled shrimp skewer dipped in a little leftover Bloody Maria mix-don’t knock it till you try it!
Storage
– Store the mixed drink (without ice) in the fridge for up to a day.
– If you’re making a pitcher, add garnishes and ice only when serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
Bloody Maria Variations
Bloody Juanita
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) cucumber juice and a pinch of smoked paprika.
– Shake with the rest of the ingredients for a cool, smoky twist.
Bloody Verde
– Swap tomato juice for tomatillo juice.
– Add a dash of cilantro, then shake and strain over ice. Garnish with a sprig of cilantro or a slice of green chili.
Spicy Mango Maria
– Muddle a thin slice of habanero in the shaker.
– Add a splash of mango juice for a sweet-spicy balance.
Virgin Bloody Maria
– Skip the tequila.
– Add extra tomato juice and all the seasonings. It’s just as flavorful and brunch-ready.
Helpful Q&A
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Mix everything (except ice and garnishes) in a pitcher and refrigerate. Stir well before serving over ice.
What’s the best tequila to use?
A blanco (silver) tequila is your best bet. It’s clean and crisp, letting the other flavors shine.
Can I make it spicier?
Definitely. Add more hot sauce, muddle in fresh chili, or try chili-infused tequila.
Is this drink low-carb?
Pretty much! Tomato juice has some natural sugars, but it’s still a solid choice if you’re cutting carbs.
What’s a fun way to serve it?
Rim the glass with chili-lime salt, or garnish with something unexpected like pickled okra or a mini taco.
Bloody Marias are all about bold flavor and personal flair. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just treating yourself, this cocktail’s got the kind of kick that wakes up your taste buds and starts the day off right.
