Are you looking for a sophisticated and refreshing non-alcoholic beverage to impress your guests or simply enjoy a relaxing evening at home? Look no further! This recipe for a Virgin Mary is your answer. This delicious mocktail captures all the savory, spicy, and tangy goodness of a Bloody Mary, but without the alcohol. It's the perfect healthy choice for a brunch, party, or any time you crave a flavorful and satisfying drink. It’s quick to make, incredibly adaptable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups Tomato Juice (high-quality makes a difference!)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- ½ tsp Hot Sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- ¼ tsp Celery Salt
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper
- 2 dashes of your favourite hot sauce
- Pinch of Salt
- 2 Celery Stalks, for garnish
- Ice Cubes
- Optional garnishes: Lemon wedge, olives, pickled jalapeños, a sprig of parsley
Instructions:
- Chill your glasses: Place your glasses in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will keep your Virgin Mary refreshingly cold for longer.
- Combine ingredients: In a shaker with ice, combine the tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery salt, black pepper, and salt.
- Shake well: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Strain (optional): For a smoother drink, strain the mixture into your chilled glasses filled with ice. If you prefer a slightly pulpier texture, skip this step.
- Garnish and serve: Add your celery stalks and other desired garnishes. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Virgin Mary:
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of your Virgin Mary heavily depends on the quality of your tomato juice. Look for a brand with a rich and flavorful profile.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce to your liking. Start with less and add more until you reach your desired level of spiciness.
- Get creative with garnishes: Don't be afraid to experiment with different garnishes! A grilled shrimp, a slice of bacon, or even a small piece of cheese can add extra flavor and visual appeal.
Variations:
- Spicy Virgin Mary: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño for an extra kick.
- Herby Virgin Mary: Add a few sprigs of fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Savory Virgin Mary: Include a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a more complex savory flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 70-80
- Protein: Around 2g
- Carbohydrates: Around 10g
- Fat: Around 0g
- Sodium: This will vary significantly depending on the ingredients used.
This Virgin Mary recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a refreshing and flavorful drink. Perfect as a quick dinner idea or a special occasion beverage, it's a versatile recipe that you can customize to your taste. Enjoy experimenting with different garnishes and flavors to create your perfect Virgin Mary! Making homemade drinks is always a delightful experience!