Introduction
The Blushing Mary is a delightful twist on the traditional Bloody Mary, offering a lighter and more effervescent experience. This garden-fresh cocktail combines the savory depth of a Bloody Mary with the refreshing fizz of tonic water, making it an ideal choice for brunch or a warm afternoon. With its vibrant ingredients and aromatic herbs, the Blushing Mary is a testament to the beauty of fresh produce in mixology.
This cocktail is a modern creation that brings a unique spin to the classic Bloody Mary, which dates back to the early 20th century. While the original is known for its hearty and spicy profile, the Blushing Mary opts for a more subtle and refreshing approach, perfect for those who enjoy their cocktails with a touch of sophistication and a splash of color.
Fun fact: The name 'Bloody Mary' is often linked to Queen Mary I of England, known for her bloody reign. However, the Blushing Mary takes a more cheerful approach, focusing on fresh, garden-inspired flavors that are sure to brighten any occasion.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Blushing Mary, you'll need a selection of fresh ingredients that bring both flavor and color to your glass. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 oz Vodka: Choose a smooth vodka to serve as the base for this cocktail. A high-quality vodka will ensure a clean and crisp taste.
- 5 Cherry Tomato: Sweet and juicy, cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness and color to the mix.
- 0.5 Red Bell Pepper: For a hint of sweetness and a pop of color, red bell pepper is essential.
- 2 dashes Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and a touch of umami to the cocktail's flavor profile.
- 2 Fresh Basil Leaves: These aromatic leaves bring a sweet, peppery note that complements the other ingredients.
- 7 Fresh Cilantro Leaves: Cilantro adds a fresh, citrusy flavor that enhances the garden-fresh theme.
- 4 oz Tonic Water: Tonic water introduces effervescence, lightening the cocktail and adding a refreshing finish.
- 1 dash Aromatic Bitters: Aromatic bitters provide complexity and balance to the flavors.
- Cracked Black Pepper: For a touch of heat and spice, freshly cracked black pepper is perfect.
- Celery Salt: A pinch of celery salt enhances the savory elements of the cocktail.
Instructions
Crafting a Blushing Mary is as much about technique as it is about ingredients. Follow these steps for a flawless drink every time:
- Muddle vodka, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, Worcestershire, basil, and cilantro in a mixing glass.
- Fill with ice and shake vigorously.
- Strain into a collins glass, add tonic water, and stir.
- Add bitters, pepper, and celery salt. Garnish with a red pepper slice.
Tips
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and color. Overripe or underripe tomatoes can alter the cocktail's balance.
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider roasting the red bell pepper before muddling it into the mix.
- Adjust the amount of Worcestershire sauce to taste. Some may prefer a more pronounced umami flavor, while others might enjoy a subtler hint.
- Garnish with a slice of red bell pepper or a sprig of basil for an elegant presentation.
Conclusion
The Blushing Mary is a cocktail that beautifully marries the robust flavors of a Bloody Mary with a lighter, more refreshing twist. Its vibrant ingredients and effervescent character make it a standout choice for any cocktail enthusiast looking to explore new horizons.
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Blushing Mary recipe adapted from The 12 Bottle Bar by David Solmonson and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson.
