Another one of my favorite drinks during the holidays is a spicy bloody mary. Holidays can be very stressful with friends, family, cooking, cleaning, gift purchasing…the lot. Add to this stress consuming copious amounts of rich food, lashing of red wine and luxurious desserts seemingly made entirely of butter and sugar – and you have one tired puppy.
So the day after the event I always reserve for some well deserved R&R, kicking back with a relaxing drink and some leftovers.
One thing about me is that I always loved the spicier end of the bloody mary scale, but never found a vodka that could live up to the test. That is until I decided to do it myself! Now two months in advance of any major holiday I make sure to make both lemoncello and my spiced chili vodka. The best part, it is dead easy.
Let’s go shopping!
1.75ml of Vodka (your favorite brand)
*6 Dried Chilies
*12 Cardamon Pods
*12 Black Peppercorns
*2 Tablespoons of Dried Thyme
Ok, let’s go. First I take a nip out of the vodka bottle so there is enough room to not only place the ingredients but also enough room to mix when tipped back and forth. Usually just a shot or two out of the bottle.
Next, chuck in all the ingredients. Yep, that’s it! Put the top on tightly and store in a cool, dark closet or cupboard. Just make sure to give it a little shake now and again and voila! Done!
After two months the vodka will be infused with a wonderfully spicy taste unlike anything you have tasted. Pour some in a glass, add some tomato juice and a splash of worchester sauce, garnish with lime and celery stick and you are there. (Note: if you want to get extra fancy schmancy, rim the glass with celery salt).
