I know you’ve started mapping out a Halloween costume by now. But just one tip from your favorite local cocktail writer: Do not dress up as Trump. Seriously, don’t be that asshole.
Now, onto the Sauce. I kicked off a weeks-long series of spooky drinks last year around this time, and the tradition continues with Bloody Scary, my take on the brunch cocktail with a gory name that’s so good it’s enjoyed year-round.
As is the case with a number of beloved cocktails, the origin of the Bloody Mary is a bit murky. Some believe the drink is named for Mary Tudor, aka Queen Mary I of England, and an American bartender at Paris’s New York Bar is said to have invented the Bloody itself back in the 1920s, after he mixed tomato juice and vodka together.
To take the classic to a whole ’nother level of creepy, let’s give it a set of eyeballs — which are perfect for peering over any ghoulish gathering you’re planning. All you need is a jar of cocktail onions, found in the pickle section of the grocery store. Place one end of each onion directly over a flaming-hot stovetop burner for about a minute, or until black (this helps achieve the pupils).
There’s nothing wrong with throwing vodka and Bloody Mary mix together and calling it a cocktail. However, we’re all about making things from scratch here. So, be sure to pick up some celery and a cucumber while you’re shopping for those onions. You’ll use the fresh produce to infuse your favorite vodka.
Bloody Scary further proves the Bloody Mary shouldn’t be confined to brunch outings. And your new jar of infused vodka? I recommend having it on hand at all times — you know, to smash any relentless hangover in your future.
Bloody Scary Mix
Makes 1 batch
1 quart tomato juice
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon horseradish, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/2 tablespoon liquid smoke
In a large pitcher, add all ingredients and mix. Store covered and refrigerated for up to 1 week.
Bloody Scary Cocktail
Makes 1
Cucumber & Celery-Infused Vodka:
1 750-milliliter bottle of vodka
1/2 cucumber, washed and sliced
3-5 celery stalks, washed
In a large Mason jar, add all ingredients. Allow to rest overnight. Keep covered for up to 2 months.
Cocktail:
2 ounces Cucumber & Celery-Infused Vodka
Bloody Scary Mix, to top
Pour vodka into cocktail glass of your choice, then top with Bloody Scary Mix. Garnish with cocktail-onion eyeballs, 1 celery stalk and 1 cucumber spear.
Connect with CL columnist Chris Fasick on Twitter, or email him at [email protected] if there's a cocktail or recipe you'd like featured.
