While we’ve savored Bloody Marys in many ports-of-call, the most classically made cocktails tend to win over our hearts and hangovers time and again. Intensely flavored Celery Salt is the secret ingredient in this smooth and winning rendition. A great start for Super Bowl Sunday!

Classic Bloody Marys
Recipe and image courtesy of Sarah Leah Chase and Coastal Goods

4 ounces tomato juice or V8
2 teaspoons Worcestershire
1½ teaspoons prepared horseradish
¼ teaspoon Celery Salt, plus extra for serving
2 shakes Tabasco
Freshly ground Pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 fresh lemon or lime
3 ounces vodka
Ice
Celery stalk, to garnish
Lemon or lime wedge, to garnish

In a mixing beaker or small pitcher, stir together the tomato juice, Worcestershire, horseradish, Celery Salt, Tabasco, pepper, lemon or lime juice, vodka, and a few ice cubes. Let stand a bit to chill.

Place several ice cubes in a tall glass and pour the bloody mixture over them. Moisten the tip of the celery stalk with a bit of water and dip it into a bit of additional Celery Salt to coat with a top band of salt. Place the celery stalk into the Bloody and garnish with a lemon or lime wedge, as well. Enjoy.

Makes 1 drink.

MF&L Staff at Maine Food & Lifestyle magazine.