Meet Mary...Bloody Mary

Is there really any more perfect breakfast cocktail? We’ll get back to all you mimosa and Bellini fans, because those cocktails are too fantastic to be ignored.

Mary greets you with the vitamin-c and potassium packed tomato juice, then she brings the party of flavor. My favorite Bloody Mary mix is still Mr. & Mrs. T’s Bold and Spicy, but the original is always good too. Mr. & Mrs. T’s already add many of the spices needed – celery salt, garlic, pepper, salt, and much more. I then add a little more of the right balance of Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, ground black pepper, and some Tito’s vodka. Top with a few olives, lime wedge, and don’t forget the celery. Want to amp this salad in a glass up a bit? Add a slice of bacon and make it SPICY. Spice it up with hot sauce, a rim of Old Bay seasoning, or my husband’s favorite by adding some candied jalapeño peppers.

Some people like clam juice with their Bloody Mary. I could take it or leave it. Not a staple for me. You can use a pepper infused vodka for a kick or bacon vodka is now a thing apparently. I like Tito’s. It’s very versatile for a variety of refreshing cocktails. Known as “Vodka for Dog People,” I like their support for dog rescues, healthy dogs, and helping local dogs. Grey Goose is another favorite vodka, but I prefer the Goose in vodka martinis rather than having it battle with my spicy Mary. It’s not fun when the children fight.

Mary gets along great with any brunch selection, but I prefer her with more savory dishes. This morning I took left over brussels sprouts and reheated them in a skillet with turkey breakfast sausage. Lay that on a bed of home fries with diced, sweet onion, then add your egg. Scrumptious!

Mary wears a variety of styles – classic, spicy, bacon, horseradish. I will have to try Mr. & Mrs. T’s Surf & Turf recipe next! Yes, please. What’s your favorite style of Bloody Mary?