Lew's Famous Southern Bloody Marys

Lew's Famous Southern Bloody Marys: A Tailgate Tradition and Summertime Delight

My love affair with Bloody Marys began during my college years. Let's just say the standard tomato juice just wasn't cutting it. That's when I discovered the magic of Clamato juice – a game-changer! The rich, savory flavor of Clamato, paired with the botanical notes of gin (yes, gin!), creates a Bloody Mary unlike any other. It's a vibrant, sophisticated twist on a classic brunch cocktail, a far cry from the bland concoctions of my early college days.

These days, my famous Southern Bloody Marys are a staple at our summer lake house gatherings. They're the perfect prelude to an Eggs Benedict brunch, a refreshing way to beat the heat, and a delightful start to a lazy Sunday morning. The aroma alone – a tantalizing blend of Clamato, citrus, and spices – is enough to get everyone excited. But it's not just a summertime treat; these Bloody Marys have also become a beloved part of our LSU game day traditions. Tailgating with my cousins and friends in our motorhomes, I often quadruple this recipe, ensuring there's enough to go around for everyone cheering on the Tigers! The sight of those bright red drinks, filled with an array of delightful garnishes, adds to the festive atmosphere, a visual testament to our shared passion for the game and good company.

The recipe itself is surprisingly simple, yet the results are extraordinary. The key is the Clamato juice – no substitutions allowed! – providing the heart and soul of the drink. Gin adds a unique depth that vodka simply can't replicate. The fresh lemon juice provides a vital zing, while Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, horseradish, and a blend of seasonings create a complexity of flavors that dance on your tongue. Each sip is a journey, a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy.

Beyond the Basic Bloody Mary: Garnishing for the Win

Of course, a Bloody Mary is only as good as its garnish. While a simple celery stalk is classic and always welcome, I encourage you to explore the endless possibilities. Pickled okra, string beans, or onions add a delightful crunch and briny flavor. Olives provide a salty counterpoint, while boiled shrimp elevates the drink to a whole new level of decadence. Feel free to experiment, combining different elements to create a truly unique and personalized garnish. My favorite? A combination of all the above – a vibrant tapestry of flavors and textures that elevates this drink to an art form.

More than a Drink: A Celebration of Friendship and Good Times

For me, these Bloody Marys are more than just a recipe; they're a tradition, a symbol of shared moments and cherished memories. They represent lazy summer afternoons spent laughing with loved ones, the electric energy of a tailgate party, and the unwavering support for our beloved LSU Tigers. Each sip is a reminder of the joy of friendship, the thrill of a game well-played, and the simple pleasure of gathering with those we hold dear. So, whether you're hosting a brunch, tailgating with friends, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, I encourage you to try my Southern Bloody Marys. You might just find that they become a tradition of your own, a testament to the power of simple pleasures and the beauty of shared experiences.

Ingredients:

• 1 quart Clamato juice
• 1 cup gin
• 4 lemons, juiced
• 6 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3 shakes Tabasco sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
• 2 teaspoons Cavenders seasoning
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 6 stalks celery (plus other garnishes as desired)

Step-by-step

• In a pitcher, combine all the ingredients, except the celery.
• You may adjust the seasonings to your tastes.
• Fill a glass with ice and a celery stalk (You could also use pickled okra, pickled string beans, pickled onions, olives, boiled shrimp, or a combination of all as the garnish)
• Pour the Bloody Mary in the glass and enjoy!