A new twist on the classic Bloody Mary has emerged, infusing the beloved brunch cocktail with the bold, fermented flavors of kimchi. The Kimchi Bloody Mary, a creation from the Red Lion pub in London, is gaining attention for its unique blend of spicy, tangy, and umami notes.
The Origin of the Kimchi Bloody Mary
The Red Lion, a historic pub in Soho, London, is known for its inventive cocktails. Their bartender, Alex Smith, developed the Kimchi Bloody Mary to cater to adventurous palates. "We wanted to create something that honors the classic Bloody Mary but adds a modern, global twist," Smith explains. The drink quickly became a favorite among regulars and foodies alike.
Key Ingredients
The Kimchi Bloody Mary retains the traditional vodka and tomato juice base but incorporates kimchi brine for an extra layer of complexity. Other ingredients include:
- 60ml vodka
- 120ml tomato juice
- 30ml kimchi brine (from a jar of kimchi)
- 15ml lemon juice
- 5ml Worcestershire sauce
- 2-3 dashes of Tabasco sauce
- A pinch of salt and black pepper
- Ice cubes
- Garnish: a celery stalk, a wedge of lemon, and a piece of kimchi
Preparation Method
To make the cocktail, fill a shaker with ice. Add the vodka, tomato juice, kimchi brine, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, salt, and pepper. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Garnish with a celery stalk, a lemon wedge, and a piece of kimchi.
Why It Works
The kimchi brine adds a fermented tanginess that complements the savory tomato juice. The spice from the kimchi and Tabasco creates a warming sensation, while the lemon juice brightens the flavors. This cocktail is not only delicious but also offers the probiotic benefits of fermented foods.
Where to Try It
The Red Lion in Soho serves the Kimchi Bloody Mary as part of their weekend brunch menu. For those who cannot visit London, the recipe is simple enough to replicate at home. Smith suggests using a high-quality, artisanal kimchi for the best flavor.
As the popularity of Korean cuisine continues to rise globally, this cocktail represents a fusion of Western and Eastern culinary traditions. Whether you are a Bloody Mary purist or an adventurous drinker, the Kimchi Bloody Mary offers a memorable experience.
