The Legend of the Bloody Mary: History and Recipes
The Bloody Mary is a legendary cocktail, known for its complexity and multiple variations. This spicy cocktail, often enjoyed during brunch, has an intriguing history and varied ingredients. This article explores the origin of the Bloody Mary, key facts, and guides you in preparing this unique cocktail.
Origin of the Bloody Mary
The history of the Bloody Mary dates back to the 1920s and 1930s. It is believed to have been created by Fernand Petiot, a French bartender working at Harry's New York Bar in Paris. Originally, this simple cocktail was made with vodka and tomato juice. However, when Petiot moved to the King Cole Bar at the St. Regis Hotel in New York, he added spices and sauces, creating the modern Bloody Mary.
The name "Bloody Mary" is said to be inspired by Queen Mary I of England, known for her persecution of Protestants. Another theory suggests the cocktail is named after a famous waitress named Mary who worked at a bar in Chicago.
Key Facts about the Bloody Mary
Ingredients of the Bloody Mary
- 50 ml vodka
- 150 ml tomato juice
- 15 ml lemon juice
- 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
- 2 dashes Tabasco sauce
- Celery salt, black pepper
- Ice cubes
- Garnishes: celery stalk, lemon slice, olives, pickles
Steps to Make a Bloody Mary
- Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
- Add the vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, celery salt, and pepper.
- Shake vigorously to mix well.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
- Garnish with a celery stalk, lemon slice, and olives.
Variations of the Bloody Mary
Bloody Maria: Replace vodka with tequila for a spicy Mexican twist.
Red Snapper: Use gin instead of vodka for a botanical touch.
The Bloody Mary is a versatile and characterful cocktail, perfect for starting the day or enjoying a relaxing brunch. With this recipe, you can now prepare this iconic cocktail at home and impress your guests with its spicy and refreshing flavors. Cheers!
