A Cajun Bloody Mary adds spicy Louisiana flair to the classic brunch cocktail. This zesty version kicks up the heat with Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, and a rimmed glass coated in spicy Creole blend. The drink brings New Orleans spirit to any gathering.
The recipe takes only 5 minutes to make and needs basic ingredients found in most kitchens. The mix combines tomato juice, vodka, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, and Cajun spices for bold flavor.
Garnish options range from celery stalks and pickled okra to spicy green beans and bacon. The drink pairs well with crawfish, shrimp, or any hearty brunch foods.
Equipment
- Large cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Tall glass
- Stirring spoon
- Cutting Board
- Sharp knife
- Fine-mesh strainer
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 4 oz tomato juice
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp hot sauce preferably Louisiana-style
- ½ tsp prepared horseradish
- ¼ tsp fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of celery salt
- Ice cubes
Garnish Options:
- Celery stalk
- Pickled okra
- Green olives
- Lemon wedge
- Cajun-spiced shrimp
- Bacon strip
Instructions
- Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Add vodka, tomato juice, Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, horseradish, lemon juice, and celery salt to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to mix all ingredients.
- Fill a tall glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Add desired garnishes.
Notes
Store leftover mix (without alcohol) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with extra tomato juice.
Rim the glass with Cajun seasoning for extra flavor. Just wet the rim with a lemon wedge and dip in the seasoning.
Must Have Ingredients
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Tasting Notes
A Cajun Bloody Mary greets the nose with bold garlic, celery salt, and spicy cayenne aromas. The traditional tomato base takes a backseat to the zesty Cajun seasonings.
The first sip brings waves of savory umami from the tomato juice mixed with vodka. The Cajun spices create a warm heat that builds gradually rather than hitting all at once.
Key flavors include:
- Garlic and onion
- Celery salt
- Black pepper
- Cayenne heat
- Worcestershire umami
- Fresh tomato
The texture is thick and smooth, with a pleasant weight on the tongue. Small bits of spices add subtle texture throughout each sip.
The finish leaves a lingering warmth from the Cajun seasoning blend. Notes of black pepper and celery salt remain on the palate for several minutes after drinking.
The drink offers medium heat that most spice fans will enjoy. Those sensitive to heat may want to reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
Substitute
The classic Bloody Mary spices can be swapped with Cajun seasoning alternatives. Use creole seasoning or blackened seasoning blend instead of traditional celery salt and black pepper.
Replace regular vodka with pepper vodka or jalapeno-infused vodka. A spicy whiskey can work too, creating a unique twist on the cocktail.
Switch out regular tomato juice for spicy V8 or Clamato juice. These ready-made options add extra kick and flavor to the drink.
Common replacements for garnishes:
- Pickled okra instead of celery
- Andouille sausage instead of bacon
- Crawfish tails instead of shrimp
- Green onions instead of regular onions
- Pickled green beans instead of olives
The rim seasoning can use Tony Chachere’s or Slap Ya Mama instead of plain salt. These Cajun seasonings add authentic Louisiana flavor to each sip.
For a non-alcoholic version, use plain tomato juice mixed with pickle juice. Add extra hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce to maintain the bold taste.
