Bloody Caesar
The Bloody Caesar: Canada’s Iconic Cocktail with a Zesty Kick
The Bloody Caesar is a beloved Canadian cocktail, known for its savory, spicy, and slightly briny flavor. Often simply called "Caesar," this drink is similar to the Bloody Mary but with a key difference: it uses Clamato juice, a blend of clam and tomato juices, instead of just tomato juice. This unique ingredient gives the Bloody Caesar its distinct taste and has made it a staple in Canadian brunch culture and beyond. Here’s how you can make this iconic cocktail at home.
The Bloody Caesar: A Brief History
The Bloody Caesar was created in 1969 by Walter Chell, a bartender at the Calgary Inn in Alberta, Canada. Chell was asked to develop a new cocktail for the opening of the hotel’s Italian restaurant. Drawing inspiration from the Italian dish spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), he combined vodka, clam and tomato juices, and a blend of spices to create what would become Canada’s national cocktail. The drink quickly gained popularity, and today, more than 350 million Caesars are consumed annually in Canada.
Ingredients- 1 1/2 oz (45 ml) vodka
- 4 oz (120 ml) Clamato juice
- 2 dashes of hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 3 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 pinch of celery salt
- 1 pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lime wedge
- Celery stalk, pickled bean, or dill pickle spear, for garnish
- Rim of celery salt and/or kosher salt (optional)
Step-By-Step Recipe
Prepare the Glass: If you prefer a salted rim, rub the lime wedge around the rim of a highball glass, then dip the rim in a plate of celery salt or a mix of celery and kosher salt. This adds an extra layer of flavor to your Caesar.
Add the Vodka: Fill the glass with ice cubes and pour in 1 1/2 oz (45 ml) of vodka.
Mix the Seasonings: Add 2 dashes of hot sauce, 3 dashes of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of celery salt, and a pinch of black pepper. The hot sauce adds a spicy kick, while the Worcestershire sauce gives the drink a deep, umami flavor.
Pour the Clamato Juice: Top up the glass with 4 oz (120 ml) of Clamato juice. This savory blend of clam and tomato juice is what makes the Caesar unique.
Stir and Garnish: Stir the cocktail gently to mix the ingredients, then garnish with a celery stalk, pickled bean, or dill pickle spear. For an extra touch, add a lime wedge on the rim of the glass.
Tips for the Perfect Bloody Caesar
Adjust the Spice: If you love your cocktails with a bit of heat, don’t be afraid to add more hot sauce. For those who prefer a milder drink, start with just a dash and adjust to taste.
Customize Your Garnish: While celery stalks are the traditional garnish, you can get creative with other options like pickled asparagus, shrimp, bacon, or even a slider. Some restaurants even serve “extreme Caesars” with elaborate garnishes that can be a meal in themselves
Experiment with Flavored Vodkas: For a twist on the classic, try using flavored vodkas such as pepper, lemon, or cucumber. These can add an extra layer of complexity to your Caesar.
Make It a Meal: The Bloody Caesar is often enjoyed as a brunch cocktail, thanks to its savory profile. Pair it with eggs, bacon, or a hearty breakfast sandwich for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The Bloody Caesar is more than just a cocktail; it’s a Canadian icon with a rich history and a unique flavor that sets it apart from other drinks. Whether you’re enjoying it at brunch, as a hangover cure, or simply as a flavorful beverage, the Caesar is a versatile and delicious choice. So why not shake things up at your next gathering with this classic Canadian cocktail? With its savory, spicy, and slightly briny taste, the Bloody Caesar is sure to impress.