A bold and savory twist on traditional cocktails, the Carnivore Electrolyte is packed with umami flavor and a refreshing kick. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing drink after a workout or just want to shake up your usual cocktail routine, this unique blend of beef broth, tomato juice, and zesty seasonings delivers a satisfying sip every time.
Carnivore Electrolyte
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I picked up along the way—using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled makes all the difference in brightening up the flavors. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Makes 1 drink
- 1.5 oz (45ml) beef broth – Adds a rich, savory base
- 2 oz (60ml) tomato juice – Brings a slightly sweet tang
- 0.5 oz (15ml) Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the umami flavor
- 0.5 oz (15ml) fresh lemon juice – Brightens everything up
- 1 oz (30ml) coconut water – A natural electrolyte boost
- A dash of hot sauce – Adjust to your spice preference
- A pinch of sea salt – Enhances all the flavors
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or celery leaves)
- A slice of cured meat (prosciutto or salami works well)
Glass: A rocks glass is perfect, but a highball glass works if you want more room for ice and garnishes.
How to Make It
- Chill your rocks glass in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes to keep the drink cold.
- Pour in the beef broth and tomato juice.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce and fresh lemon juice.
- Top with coconut water and a dash of hot sauce.
- Stir gently to mix everything together, then sprinkle in a pinch of sea salt.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a slice of cured meat.
That’s it! Give it a quick taste—if you want more spice, add another dash of hot sauce. If it’s too bold, a little extra coconut water can mellow it out.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Make ahead: Mix everything except the ice and garnishes, then store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving.
- Leftovers? While best fresh, you can store any extra in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a day—just shake before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with hearty, flavorful dishes. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Grilled Steak – The rich, smoky flavors match the drink’s umami depth.
- Charcuterie Board – Cured meats and cheeses balance the tangy, savory notes.
- Spicy Appetizers – Jalapeño poppers or buffalo wings add a fiery contrast.
I love sipping this alongside a plate of spicy wings—the heat and umami play so well together!
Tips & Variations
Want a lighter version? Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth for a less intense flavor.
Looking for a twist? Try these variations:
- Sea Breeze Carnivore – Replace coconut water with cucumber-infused water and add a pinch of smoked sea salt.
- Spicy Garden Carnivore – Stir in fresh horseradish and garnish with a pickled vegetable.
- Herbal Carnivore – Use rosemary-infused beef broth and garnish with fresh basil.
Not a fan of tomato juice? Try carrot juice or beet juice for a slightly sweeter, earthy alternative.
Want it spicier? Add more hot sauce or toss in a slice of fresh jalapeño for extra heat.
Making it alcohol-free? Skip the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth—use tomato juice, coconut water, lemon juice, and a pinch of sea salt instead.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Just leave out the ice and garnishes until serving.
Is there a vegan version?
Absolutely—just use vegetable broth and vegan Worcestershire sauce.
What if I don’t have coconut water?
Plain water works, but pickle juice adds a fun tangy twist!
Can kids drink this?
For a kid-friendly version, leave out the hot sauce and make it with tomato juice, coconut water, and lemon juice.
Is this good for hydration?
It’s not a magic fix, but the natural electrolytes can definitely help with rehydration!
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights when I want something refreshing yet bold. Give it a try, tweak it to your taste, and enjoy!
