Mississippi Bloody Mary

If you’re going to put a twist on a classic cocktail like the

Bloody Mary

, you’d better make it special—and we did. We’re adding a

pepperoncini

riff to this drink, aligning it with the popular

Mississippi roast

that features the tart chili. A splash of pepperoncini juice adds tangy, slightly spicy, faintly bitter notes to the usually savory cocktail. A garnish of pepperoncini and pickled

okra

adds a unique twist that takes this beloved cocktail in a new direction.

Learn how to make a Mississippi Bloody Mary. Offer it up at your next brunch bar, and impress your guests with a cocktail that just might become their new go-to.

What Is a Bloody Mary?

While the ingredient list can vary based on who’s making one, the Bloody Mary is a vodka and tomato-based cocktail that’s a staple at brunch gatherings, tailgates, and more. It’s been around for over a hundred years, with a recipe for the beloved drink first published by Fernand Petiot, a bartender in Paris at the iconic Harry’s Bar, in 1921.

It’s said that as Russian refugees arrived in Paris around that time, they brought a preference for vodka with them. American expats came to the table with canned tomato juice, and the Bloody Mary was born, possibly named for Queen Mary Tudor’s violent reign over England.

This vibrant cocktail has stood the test of time, remaining a brunch staple and the ultimate hangover cure to this day.

Ingredients for a Mississippi Bloody Mary

All the classic components of a Bloody Mary are here, along with pepperoncini juice and a pickled okra garnish for a tangy, spicy kick and Mississippi twist. To make a Mississippi Bloody Mary, you’ll need:

• 
  Vegetable juice:
  
  Such as V8, to add a robust flavor and vibrant color to the drink.
• 
  Pepperoncini juice:
  
  Adds a tangy, spicy kick.
• 
  Prepared horseradish:
  
  For a sharp, pungent bite.
• 
  Worcestershire sauce:
  
  Adds umami and complexity to the drink.
• 
  Tabasco sauce:
  
  For a spicy addition that can be increased or decreased as desired.
• 
  Vodka:
  
  The neutral alcohol base of the drink.
• 
  Ice:
  
  Chills the cocktail.
• 
  Pepperoncini peppers:
  
  A spicy garnish for the drink.
• 
  Pickled okra pod:
  
  For a Southern touch and pickled flavor.

How To Make A Mississippi Bloody Mary

Just stir, top with ice, and garnish—that’s all that’s needed to whip up this brunch cocktail. Full instructions are below, but here’s a brief recap before you get started:

• 
  Step 1. Stir cocktail:
  
  Stir to combine all ingredients (except garnishes) in a tall glass. Top with ice.
• 
  Step 2. Add garnish:
  
  Garnish the drink with a skewer of peppers and okra and serve.

Tips for the Best Mississippi Bloody Mary

For the best Bloody Mary, keep these tips in mind:

• 
  Balance the heat:
  
  Adjust the heat as desired by adding more or less Tabasco and horseradish.
• 
  Chill ingredients:
  
  For the most refreshing flavor and to avoid diluting the drink, make sure your vegetable juice is well-chilled before using.
• 
  Quality vodka:
  
  There’s no need to break the bank when choosing a vodka to make Bloody Marys, but do choose a smooth vodka that won’t overpower the other flavors in the drink. You can also swap the vodka with tequila or gin if preferred.
• 
  Garnish as desired:
  
  While we call for pepperoncinis and pickled okra to garnish this Bloody Mary, feel free to get creative. Garnish with anything from crispy bacon to celery, fresh herbs, cooked shrimp, and more, for your own personalized version.

What To Serve With a Mississippi Bloody Mary

A Bloody Mary can pair well with just about any

brunch dish

—the savory, tomato-based flavor can be a nice contrast to rich dishes like eggs benedict,

deviled eggs

, biscuits and gravy, and other favorites.

More Brunch Cocktail Recipes You’ll Love

The ultimate way to elevate a leisurely weekend gathering, these brunch cocktails are guaranteed to be a hit at your next get-together:

• 
  Classic Bloody Mary
  
• 
  Bloody Bull Cocktail
  
• 
  Paloma
  
• 
  Bloody Maria
  
• 
  Tequila Sunrise
  
• 
  Classic Mimosa
  
• 
  Potlikker Bloody Marys
  
• 
  Bourbon Bloody Marys
  
  

Editorial contributions by

Katie Rosenhouse.