Bloody Caesar Cocktail Recipe

The Bloody Caesar, also known as the Caesar, is a popular Canadian cocktail created in 1969 by bartender Walter Chell in Calgary, Alberta. Chell was inspired by the classic Bloody Mary and the flavors of Italian cuisine, specifically Spaghetti alle Vongole (clam pasta). The cocktail quickly gained popularity and is now considered Canada's national cocktail.

• The Caesar is typically enjoyed during brunch or as a hangover cure.
• It is estimated that over 350 million Caesars are consumed annually in Canada.

The Bloody Caesar is a savory, tangy, and slightly spicy cocktail. The combination of Clamato juice, vodka, and hot sauce creates a bold and robust flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying.

• The Caesar is often confused with the Bloody Mary, but the key difference is the use of Clamato juice instead of tomato juice.
• The cocktail is traditionally garnished with a celery stalk and a lime wedge, but many variations exist, including the addition of pickled vegetables, olives, or even bacon.
• In 2009, the Caesar was officially declared Canada's National Cocktail by the Canadian Parliament.

1. Rim a highball glass with celery salt.
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. Add vodka, Clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, and freshly ground pepper.
4. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Garnish with a celery stalk and a lime wedge.

• Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Freshly squeezed lime juice and freshly ground pepper can make a big difference.
• Experiment with garnishes. Try adding a strip of crispy bacon or a pickled asparagus spear for a unique twist.
• Adjust the heat to your liking. If you like it spicy, don't be shy with the Tabasco sauce.

Seafood

Pairing a Bloody Caesar with seafood is a classic choice. The Clamato juice in the cocktail harmonizes with the briny flavors of oysters, mussels, and shrimp, making it a perfect match.

Breakfast/Brunch Foods

The Bloody Caesar makes a fantastic companion to traditional breakfast dishes, especially ones that include eggs, such as omelets or Eggs Benedict. Its savory qualities boost the flavors of bacon and sausages.

Snack Foods

The robust flavor profile of the Bloody Caesar also pairs well with salty snack foods. Think of chips, pretzels, and even popcorn—especially if they're seasoned with a spicy or savory twist.

• If you don't have Clamato juice, you can use tomato juice and a splash of clam juice or fish sauce.
• Worcestershire sauce can be replaced with soy sauce or steak sauce.
• If you don't have celery salt, use regular salt and add a dash of celery seed or celery juice.

The Spicy Caesar

Ingredients: Replace vodka with tequila, add sliced jalapeños. Recipe: Follow the original recipe but use tequila instead of vodka. Add a few slices of jalapeños along with the other ingredients. This twist brings a Mexican flare—think of it like a mariachi band crashing the party.

The Garden Caesar

Ingredients: Add a skewer of pickled vegetables. Recipe: Make the original cocktail, then add a skewer with an assortment of pickled vegetables like olives, pickles, and pearl onions. This turns your cocktail into a mini salad bar—it's a drink and a snack!

The Smoky Caesar

Ingredients: Use smoked vodka, and garnish with a strip of crispy bacon. Recipe: Replace regular vodka with smoked vodka. Stir as usual and garnish with a strip of crispy bacon. It's like a barbecue in a glass, giving you all the smoky goodness without the grill.