11 Non-Bloody Mary Tomato Cocktails You Should Order
Cocktails have come a long way, evolving from simple concoctions to vibrant, sophisticated beverages. Mixologists continuously push the boundaries experimenting with new and old flavors. Some classics are so iconic they've sparked endless new recipes, just like the full-bodied bloody mary.
We are all familiar with the bold and savory drink combining the richness of tomato juice and the distinct kick of vodka, enhanced by a blend of spices and seasonings like pepper sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. It's no doubt a standout cocktail, particularly enjoyed over brunch. But is there more room for tomatoes on the cocktail menu? Well, it appears so.
We found plenty more delightful concoctions that can be made with this beautifully rich fruit. From the "bloody" deviations of the original Mary to the refreshing Mediterranean takes on cocktail classics, the red-tinted libations come by many names, each with unique appeal and following. Read on to find your favorite take on tomato-inspired cocktails.
1. Tomato and basil caipirinha
Caipirinhas enjoy widespread popularity in Brazil thanks to the country's warm and vibrant climate throughout the year. This traditional cocktail hails from São Paulo's countryside and follows a classic recipe containing limes, sugar, cachaça (a traditional sugar cane spirit), and ice. Affectionately known as the "little country girl," caipirinha is typically served without garnish. While lime is the customary flavor, a variety of exciting options, such as passion fruit, kiwi, and strawberry, are also available. The quality of the cachaça is critical in making caipirinha, and it is what defines this exceptional cocktail.
One particularly thrilling variation of this drink is the tomato basil caipirinha, which takes it to new heights. Resembling the renowned bloody mary or the Mexican michelada, this version doesn't disappoint. To craft this cocktail, lime wedges, fresh basil leaves, and sugar are crushed in a tumbler to extract the lime juice. Tomato juice and cachaça (sometimes rum) are then stirred into the glass with a generous amount of ice. Finally, a garnish of cherry tomato and basil on a skewer is the finishing touch. This refreshing cocktail needs to become your new summer favorite.
2. Michelada
The michelada is a classic Mexican beverage that originates from central Mexico. While some people liken it to a bloody mary, it's not an exact comparison. The essential ingredients of a michelada are beer, lime juice, salt, and a unique sauce known as a petro. This special sauce usually consists of Maggi liquid seasoning, hot sauce, and other condiments. Soy sauce, clamato juice (a blend of tomato concentrate and clam broth), and Worcestershire sauce are a few additional seasonings used to add depth to the drink.
The michelada is known for its bold spiciness, which comes from hot sauce, such as traditional Tabasco. Tomato or clamato juice is an excellent complement to this fiery kick, and while adding it is optional, we highly recommend trying this variation. The cocktail is finished by running a lime edge around the rim and then coating it with salt, chili powder, or Tajin seasoning for a bursting sensation. The drink is garnished with simple lime wedges or elaborate additions, such as shrimp or hot Mexican chili.
3. Red snapper
Red snapper is a descendant of the renowned bloody mary cocktail. Since its inception in the 1940s, the famed concoction has transformed into a gin-infused elixir and holds its own against the original. The story goes that bloody mary was initially called red snapper and contained vodka as a base liquor, but eventually, the two cocktails have divided into their unique versions. While the resemblances are undeniable, the red snapper's distinct character sets it apart.
At its heart, the red snapper stays true to its roots. The gin base blends seamlessly with the concentrated tomato juice, complemented by a fresh squeeze of lemon juice. The celery salt, black pepper, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce add complexity. The result is a pleasant blend of flavors and a satisfying interplay between the tangy citrus, invigorating spice, and smooth richness of tomato. The red snapper is aromatic and perfectly spiced, making it an irresistible brunch pairing. The cocktail is usually garnished with a celery stick and a lime wedge, and it's a very enticing savory treat.
4. Bloody bull
The bloody bull is the perfect choice for those who enjoy venturing beyond the traditional with their cocktails. This unique blend combines the bold flavors of bloody mary with the savory richness of beef broth, resulting in an unconventional yet delicious drink. The bullshot, as it was initially called, was first introduced in 1952 at Detroit's Caucus Club. It was the brainchild of John Hurley, a BBDO advertising executive who frequently visited the steakhouse. According to renowned cocktail historian David Wondrich, the aim was to boost sales of Campbell Soup's canned beef bouillon, which led to the creation of this innovative cocktail.
The bloody bull cocktail stands out among other libations with its savory and meaty essence. Served in a tall glass or cocktail tumbler, it showcases a deep red hue and velvety texture. The tomato juice and vodka create a refreshing base, while the beef broth adds a distinctive depth and umami. Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery salt, and black pepper further enhance the complexity, creating a lingering sensation that evolves with each sip. The garnishes add natural beauty to this enticing brunch favorite, such as a crisp celery stalk and a dash of black pepper on the rim.
5. Tomato margarita
In 1942, bartender Francisco Morales created the first margarita at Tommy's Place in Juarez, Mexico. The original recipe included tequila, Cointreau, and the juice of a single lime served with a salty rim. Since then, the famous margarita has taken on the world with many different recipes. One such lovely variation is the tomato margarita, which combines the classic margarita flavors with the savory essence of tomato juice.
To make a tomato margarita, you would start with the classic margarita ingredients: tequila, lime juice, and orange liquor. Instead of syrup, tomato juice or fresh tomatoes are added to enhance the fruit's natural sweetness and acidity. You could also use a splash of hot sauce or jalapeno peppers to give the drink a bit of spice and complexity. Another intriguing take on the classic is the watermelon margarita. The sweetness of watermelon and the tartness of tomatoes offer a perfect balance to this refreshing libation. Next time you search for a new summer cocktail, boosting the margarita with tomato may be your ultimate answer.
6. Bloody Caesar
Yet another spin on the classic bloody mary, the bloody Caesar is a Canadian cocktail that combines vodka, tomato juice, and spices with clam broth for a deeply savory flavor. The drink's origins are traced back to Walter Chell, a bartender who drew inspiration from the Italian spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) to create the bloody Caesar in 1969 at the Calgary Inn in Alberta, Canada. The real difference between a bloody mary and a bloody Caesar is the clamato juice. With the fortunate appearance of Mott's clamato juice in Canada, Chell's creation was due a great success and quickly became a national sensation.
The combination of tomato juice, citrusy lime, and savory ingredients in the bloody Caesar creates a refreshing and satisfying drink that is perfect for any occasion. It pairs exceptionally well with brunch dishes or seafood. Bloody Caesar is usually served in a highball glass over ice, with a salt-rimmed edge, and garnished with a lemon wedge and celery stalk. It can be customized to meet your taste, whether you prefer a spicier kick or salty additions like bacon or pickles.
7. Bloody maria
The bloody maria has been a popular brunch cocktail since the 1930s, however, the exact origins of the drink remain unclear. This tequila-infused deviation from the classic bloody mary is deeply satisfying, with a mix of authentic Mexican spices and garnishes. If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine or just looking for a unique and delicious brunch cocktail, the bloody maria is definitely worth a try.
There are many variations of the bloody maria, ranging from simple swaps of vodka for tequila to more complex mixers and garnishes. However, the most common version typically includes tomato juice, hot sauce, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, black pepper, and plenty of horseradish. To top it off, refreshing cucumber and jalapeño slices make a perfect garnish. In some places, queso fresco (fresh Mexican cheese) is added to the cocktail, making it a satisfying alcoholic snack for a midday pick-me-up.
8. Heirloom tomato martini
The martini has earned its place as one of the most iconic cocktails of all time. The traditional cocktail is a blend of dry gin and dry vermouth, garnished with an olive or lemon twist. Whether enjoyed straight or on the rocks, this cocktail effortlessly emanates elegance and style. While the classic recipe remains a favorite, interpretations are becoming more common. Variations such as the apple, tomato, or chocolate martini have emerged, paving the way for a new wave of martinis.
Tomato-infused martinis, known as the heirloom martinis, offer a distinctively Mediterranean twist on the classic. Its translucent, pale pink hue showcases a visual elegance enhanced by a stylish addition of a basil spring or a twist of lemon peel. With a delicate balance of premium gin and heirloom tomato-infused vermouth, this cocktail provides layers of botanical notes and a touch of complexity. The heirloom martini celebrates the seasonal bounty of ripe tomatoes, delivering a unique and engaging martini experience.
9. Tomato gin and tonic
The gin and tonic is a classic cocktail known for its simplicity and distinctive taste. To make it, you only need gin, tonic, ice, and a slice of lemon. It's effortless to customize, and there are plenty of cocktail combinations to try. One of the most exciting variations is the tomato gin and tonic, which makes the tartness of ripe tomato a genuinely refreshing treat.
The tomato gin and tonic is just as easy to make as the classic version. The only difference is the addition of tomato juice or fresh tomatoes. This simple touch gives the drink a delightful tang and a subtle sweetness that beautifully complements the gin's botanical notes. You can experiment with different gin varieties, such as floral or herb-infused gins, to enhance the flavor profile further.
This cocktail is an excellent choice for pairing with shrimp and pesto dishes. It's also a great accompaniment to weekend brunch platters of crispy bruschettas or crostinis. Give the tomato gin and tonic a try, and it's sure to become one of your new favorite cocktails.
10. Sangrita
Sangrita is the authentic fiery Mexican juice cocktail sipped alongside tequila. Unlike the popular misconception, it has no connection to sangria and is closer in nature to a tomato-based bloody mary but with a distinct citrus punch. And while it could be mixed up with tequila to make a proper cocktail, it serves as a homage to the traditional tequila drinking in Mexico.
Sangrita's history traces back to the Lake Chapala region of Jalisco, Mexico, where original recipes incorporated orange juice, pomegranate juice, powdered chiles, and spices. Authentic renditions lean towards a citrus-heavy profile dominated by orange and lime juice, chili powder, and other spices. Choosing sangrita over the traditional salt-lime ritual delivers a more enjoyable tequila-drinking experience. It magnifies the earthy nuances of the spirit while cleansing the palate.
While bottled versions have gained popularity, crafting fresh sangrita remains unmatched. Sangrita does not follow a strict recipe and offers plenty of room for interpretation. You can stumble upon variations, including fruits like cucumber, papaya, or mango, along with the heat of hot sauce or fresh peppers.
11. Tomato spritz
If you're searching for a refreshing summer drink, a tomato spritz is definitely worth giving a try. This cocktail was created by the Masahiro Urushido at Saxon + Parole and combines the bright and tangy taste of sun-ripened tomatoes with the crispness of sparkling wine or soda water. Each sip will transport you to the sun-kissed gardens of Italy.
The tomato spritz is both incredibly refreshing and sweet, with a noticeable tomato aroma that's simply irresistible. To make it even more interesting, herbs and spices like basil, thyme, or black pepper, add depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. To complete the experience, a garnish of fresh herbs gives it a sophisticated final touch. The result is a light and delightful cocktail, perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. So, if you're looking for something new and exciting to try, give the tomato spritz a chance — you won't be disappointed.