How to Garnish a Bloody Mary.

The Bloody Mary is the essential vodka-soaked breakfast and hangover cure all-in-one, but when it comes to garnishing this savory cocktail, opinions are as strong as the drink itself. Purists insist on the classics – perhaps a crisp celery stalk, a lemon wedge, or a couple of green olives. These garnishes aren’t just decorative; they complement the drink’s zesty tomato base and briny kick. In fact, the original garnish was likely just a lemon slice or a pinch of salt, subtle touches that enhanced flavor without overshadowing the drink itself.

But over time, the Bloody Mary has become a canvas for culinary creativity, and not everyone approves. Today, you’ll find elaborate versions topped with everything from bacon strips and shrimp skewers to cheeseburger sliders and fried chicken. These “kitchen sink” Bloody Marys walk a fine line between cocktail and buffet, turning a simple drink into a meal in the traditional tall glass. Whether you call it over-the-top or overindulgent, one thing’s certain: the Bloody Mary has become the most hotly debated drink at the brunch table – and it all starts with the garnish.

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