📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol None
Alcohol 0%
Calories 70 calories
Fat 0.2g
Protein 1.8g
Carbohydrates 16g
Prep time 3 minutes
Imagine you’re at a party, and you want a drink that’s both tasty and non-alcoholic. The Virgin Mary is just that—a refreshing mix of tomato juice and spices that’s like a party in a glass! We’re going to dive into its history, flavor, and how to make it, so stick with us to learn more! ⬇️
History
The Virgin Mary cocktail is a non-alcoholic version of the Bloody Mary, a classic drink enjoyed by many. It originated as a way for people to enjoy the savory flavors of the original without the alcohol. The Virgin Mary has become a popular choice for brunches and as a morning pick-me-up.
- The name “Virgin Mary” is a playful nod to its alcoholic counterpart, the Bloody Mary.
- It was designed to offer a flavorful option for non-drinkers and designated drivers.
- The cocktail gained popularity during the American Prohibition era when alcohol was banned.
The taste of a Virgin Mary?
A Virgin Mary bursts with a savory and slightly spicy taste that tickles your taste buds. It’s like drinking a garden in a glass, with a refreshing tomato base and a kick from added seasonings.
I personally love drinking Virgin Marys because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Virgin Mary
- Virgin Mary is often garnished with a celery stalk or a pickle, adding an extra crunch to the experience.
- It’s a versatile cocktail that can be spiced up or down according to personal preference.
- The drink is sometimes used as a hangover cure due to the nutrients packed in the tomato juice.
Ingredients 📃
- Tomato juice: 3 oz (90ml)
- Lemon juice: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Worcestershire sauce: A dash
- Tabasco sauce: A dash (optional)
- Ground pepper: A pinch
- Celery salt: A pinch
- Horseradish (optional): A pinch
A Virgin Mary is traditionally served in a highball glass, which allows the colors and garnishes to stand out, making it more appealing. An alternative could be a pint glass, which also showcases the drink beautifully and gives more room for extra garnishes.
Recipe. How to make Virgin Mary 🍹
- Pour 3 oz of tomato juice into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and if you like it spicy, a dash of Tabasco sauce.
- Squeeze in 0.5 oz of fresh lemon juice.
- Season with a pinch of ground pepper and celery salt.
- Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
- Garnish with a celery stalk or a pickle, and serve immediately.
In terms of health, the Virgin Mary is relatively low in calories and can be made healthier by using low-sodium tomato juice. Plus, the tomatoes provide vitamins A and C, which are great for your health!
Food Pairings
A Virgin Mary is not just a drink; it’s an experience that can be elevated with the right food pairing. Here are some foods that enhance the flavors of this classic mocktail:
Brunch Dishes
Eggs, bacon, and toast go amazingly well with a Virgin Mary. The savory flavors of the breakfast staples complement the spiciness and tanginess of the drink.
Veggie Platters
The fresh and crisp vegetables mirror the garden-fresh taste of the Virgin Mary. It’s a match made in heaven for a light and refreshing snack.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
The creamy, melted cheese and toasted bread create a comforting combination with the zesty Virgin Mary.
I really enjoy the taste of Virgin Marys—the cool tomato juice and the spicy kick make it a perfect drink to enjoy anytime.
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Bartender Advice
- Balance is key; adjust the spices and seasonings to cater to your taste buds.
- Use high-quality tomato juice as the base for the best flavor.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with garnishes—try olives, pickles, or even a shrimp.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Virgin Mary, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Virgin Mary
- Tomato juice: Can be swapped for a blend of tomato and vegetable juices for a different twist.
- Seasonings: Adjust the amount of Worcestershire and Tabasco sauce for a milder or spicier flavor.
- Garnish: Try different garnishes like bacon strips, cheese cubes, or different pickled vegetables.
Virgin Mary Variations
Spicy Virgin Mary
- Ingredients: Add jalapeño slices for an extra spicy kick.
- Recipe: Muddle the jalapeño in the glass before adding the other ingredients.
Herbal Virgin Mary
- Ingredients: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro.
- Recipe: Muddle the herbs with lemon juice before adding to the tomato juice.
Smoky Virgin Mary
- Ingredients: Use smoked paprika and a smoked salt rim.
- Recipe: Rim the glass with smoked salt and stir in smoked paprika with the other spices.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a ‘Virgin Virgin Mary’, simply skip the Worcestershire and Tabasco sauces. Just mix tomato juice with lemon juice, add a pinch of salt and pepper, and enjoy a super simple mocktail.
Q&A
Can I make a Virgin Mary in advance?
Absolutely, you can mix the tomato juice and seasonings ahead of time. Just remember to add the lemon and garnishes right before serving to keep it fresh and zesty!
What’s the best tomato juice to use for a Virgin Mary?
Go for a high-quality, pure tomato juice with no added sugars or preservatives. It really does make a difference to the depth of the drink’s flavor.
Is the Virgin Mary a good drink for kids?
Yes, it’s non-alcoholic and full of nutrients from the tomato juice—just go easy on the spicy sauces for the little ones.
Can I add alcohol to a Virgin Mary to make a Bloody Mary?
Sure thing. Just add your desired amount of vodka, and it transforms into the classic Bloody Mary.
Are there any tricks to making a really good Virgin Mary?
Fresh ingredients are the trick. Using fresh lemon juice and grinding your pepper fresh will enhance the taste massively.
What’s the difference between a Virgin Mary and a Bloody Mary?
The only difference is the alcohol. A Bloody Mary has vodka, while a Virgin Mary doesn’t, making it a mocktail.
