Bloody Mary Dip Recipe

Introduction to the Bloody Mary Dip

The Bloody Mary, a classic cocktail, has been a staple at brunches and social gatherings for decades. Its unique blend of tomato juice, spices, and vodka makes it a favorite among many. However, why not take this beloved drink and turn it into something new and exciting? Ree Drummond’s Bloody Mary Dip is a perfect way to reinvent this classic. This zesty and creamy appetizer is a crowd-pleaser, featuring a tangy mix of cream cheese, tomato paste, mayonnaise, and a kick from crispy bacon.

**What is the Origin of the Bloody Mary?**

The Bloody Mary’s origins are shrouded in mystery, but one widely accepted story is that it was invented in 1921 by Fernand “Pete” Petiot at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris. Petiot combined vodka with tomato juice, lemon, and spices, drawing inspiration from the Russian drink “Vodka and Zakuski.” Since then, the Bloody Mary has evolved with numerous variations, becoming a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed in different ways.

**Can You Substitute Another Alcohol for the Vodka?**

While vodka is the classic choice for a Bloody Mary, you’re not limited to it. Depending on your preference, you can substitute vodka with other alcohols to create different versions. For instance, swapping vodka for tequila gives you a Bloody Maria, while using gin makes it a Bloody Bulldog or Red Snapper. If you prefer beer, you can make a Michelada, and if you’re alcohol-free, a Virgin Mary is a great option.

**Bloody Mary Dip Recipe

This dip keeps the essence of the Bloody Mary alive while offering a new way to enjoy it. Here’s how you can make it:

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Ingredients:

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3 slices of bacon

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2 tsp Montreal steak seasoning

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1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature

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1/4 cup mayonnaise

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3 Tbsp tomato paste

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2 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

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1/2 tsp celery salt

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1/2 lemon, zested and juiced

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1 1/2 tsp hot sauce

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1 1/2 Tbsp vodka (optional)

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2 pimento-stuffed green cocktail olives, quartered lengthwise (stuffing chopped)

– Assorted pickled vegetables, crudités, crackers, and chips for serving

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Directions:

1.

Cook the Bacon:

Sprinkle the bacon slices with Montreal steak seasoning and cook over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then finely chop and set aside.
2.

Prepare the Dip:

In a food processor, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and celery salt. Process until well combined. Add lemon zest and juice, hot sauce, and vodka (if using), and pulse until just combined.
3.

Combine the Dip and Bacon:

Transfer the dip to a shallow serving bowl and gently fold in the cooked bacon. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. Top with chopped olives and serve with your favorite accompaniments.

**What Should You Serve with Bloody Mary Dip?**

This dip is versatile and can be paired with a variety of crunchy snacks to add texture and flavor. Some excellent options include:

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Sliced Celery:

A classic Bloody Mary accompaniment, celery adds a fresh crunch.
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Toasts or Crackers:

Perfect for scooping up the creamy dip.
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Pickled Vegetables:

Provide a tangy contrast to the richness of the dip.
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Crudités:

Fresh vegetables like carrots or cucumbers complement the dip nicely.

**Which Variety of Olive is Best with This Dip?**

For the Bloody Mary dip, the choice of olive can elevate the flavor and texture. Here are some great options:

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Spanish Queen Olives:

Known for their firm, tangy flavor, these are ideal for adding a salty kick to the dip.
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Castelvetrano Olives:

If you prefer a milder flavor, these sweet and slightly buttery olives are a good choice.

**Can This Dip Be Made Ahead of Time?**

Yes, the Bloody Mary dip can be prepared up to one day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. Add the olives just before serving to maintain freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How far in advance can I prepare the Bloody Mary dip?

A: You can prepare the dip up to one day in advance. Store it in an airtight container and refrigerate until serving. Add toppings just before serving.

Q: Can I make the Bloody Mary dip without bacon?

A: Yes, while bacon adds a smoky flavor, you can omit it if you prefer. The dip will still be delicious with just the cream cheese, tomato paste, and spices.

Q: What if I don’t have Montreal steak seasoning?

A: You can substitute Montreal steak seasoning with a mix of salt, pepper, and paprika. It won’t have the same flavor as the seasoning, but it will still be tasty.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese for the dip?

A: While cream cheese is the recommended choice for its smooth texture, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. However, the flavor might be slightly different.

**Conclusion**

The Bloody Mary dip is a unique and delicious twist on the classic cocktail. Perfect for parties or gatherings, it offers a tangy and rich flavor profile that will captivate your guests. With its versatility in serving options and the ability to customize with vodka or other alcohols, this dip is sure to become a favorite at any social event.