We absolutely love whipping up homemade mixes that bring a burst of flavor to any gathering, and our Ball Canning Bloody Mary Mix recipe is no exception. Drawing from the classic cocktail’s roots in early 20th-century bars, this version lets us capture the fresh tang of ripe tomatoes and spices in a jar for easy enjoyment anytime.
It’s not just about the drink—it’s about preserving summer’s best right in your kitchen. With Ball’s trusted canning methods, we’ll show you how simple it is to create a versatile mix that’s perfect for brunches or DIY gifts.
Ingredients
To craft our flavorful Ball Canning Bloody Mary Mix, we select the freshest ingredients that highlight the bold, tangy essence of ripe tomatoes and aromatic spices. Below, we list them in the order they are typically prepared and used, with precise measurements and prep notes for accurate canning.
- 20 pounds fresh tomatoes, chopped – We choose ripe, juicy varieties for their vibrant red color and natural sweetness, which form the base of our mix.
- 2 cups celery, finely chopped – This adds a crisp, refreshing crunch and subtle earthiness to balance the flavors.
- 1 cup onion, diced – We opt for yellow onions for their mild bite and depth that enhances the overall spice profile.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic brings a pungent, aromatic warmth that we incorporate early for even distribution.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice – Use freshly squeezed for its bright acidity, which is essential for safe canning and to amplify the zesty notes.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – This umami-rich condiment provides a savory, tangy kick that defines the classic Bloody Mary taste.
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish – We recommend a high-quality brand for its sharp, sinus-clearing heat that invigorates the mix.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco) – Adjust to taste for a fiery edge that complements the spices without overwhelming.
- 2 teaspoons salt – We use fine sea salt to enhance flavors and aid preservation.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground – This adds a subtle, peppery warmth that rounds out the blend.
Remember, accurate measurements ensure our Ball Canning Bloody Mary Mix turns out perfectly preserved and ready for your next gathering.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our flavorful Ball Canning Bloody Mary Mix, gathering the right equipment ensures a smooth canning process and helps preserve those fresh ingredients like our 20 pounds of ripe tomatoes safely and effectively. We’ll focus on essential tools that align with Ball’s trusted canning methods, making home preservation straightforward and enjoyable.
Here’s a detailed list of the key equipment we recommend, organized by the typical order of use during preparation and canning:
- Canning Jars: We always start with Ball Mason jars in pint or quart sizes—aim for at least 6 to 8 jars depending on your batch size—to hold our tangy Bloody Mary mix. These are crucial for airtight sealing and long-term storage.
- Canning Lids and Bands: Use new Ball lids and bands for each batch to create a secure seal. This prevents spoilage and keeps the mix fresh for up to a year, as per standard canning guidelines.
- Water Bath Canner: A large stockpot or dedicated water bath canner with a rack is essential for processing our jars. It ensures the mix reaches the proper temperature to eliminate bacteria, making it safe for shelf-stable storage.
- Jar Lifter: This specialized tool with heat-resistant grips allows us to safely handle hot jars during the canning process, reducing the risk of burns and ensuring precise placement in and out of the canner.
- Canning Funnel: A wide-mouthed funnel made for canning helps us pour the Bloody Mary mixture into jars without spills, maintaining cleanliness and accuracy in measurements.
- Large Stockpot: For cooking our blend of tomatoes, celery, onion, and spices, we need a 10- to 12-quart stainless steel stockpot to accommodate the volume and allow for even simmering.
- Blender or Food Processor: To achieve the perfect consistency in our mix, a high-powered blender or food processor is key for pureeing ingredients like garlic and horseradish smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are vital, so we rely on a set of stainless steel measuring cups and spoons to portion out items like salt, black pepper, and lemon juice precisely.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife prepares our fresh produce, such as chopping onions and garlic, ensuring efficiency and safety in the kitchen.
For reference, here’s a quick overview of equipment quantities and their typical uses in a standard batch:
| Equipment Item | Recommended Quantity | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|
| Ball Mason Jars | 6-8 (pint or quart) | Storing and sealing the mix |
| Canning Lids and Bands | 6-8 sets | Creating airtight seals |
| Water Bath Canner | 1 | Processing jars for safety |
| Jar Lifter | 1 | Handling hot jars |
| Canning Funnel | 1 | Filling jars cleanly |
With this equipment on hand, we’re set to transition seamlessly into the preparation steps, building on our carefully selected ingredients for a bold, homemade Bloody Mary mix.
Instructions
We guide you through creating our homemade Ball Canning Bloody Mary Mix with simple yet precise steps that build on the fresh ingredients and equipment we’ve prepared. Let’s transform those ripe tomatoes and spices into a bold, tangy mix ready for canning.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we gather and prep the key components for our Bloody Mary Mix. Start by washing 20 pounds of ripe tomatoes under cool water to remove any dirt, then core and roughly chop them into quarters for easy blending. Next, clean and dice 2 cups of celery, 1 large onion, and 6 cloves of garlic to release their fresh, aromatic flavors.
For the seasonings, measure out 1 cup of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons of horseradish, 1 teaspoon of hot sauce, 2 tablespoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Ensure all produce is fresh and at peak ripeness to capture the vibrant, zesty essence that defines this mix. Use a sharp knife and cutting board for efficiency, arranging everything in order of use to streamline your workflow.
Cook the Bloody Mary Mix
We cook the ingredients to meld their flavors into a rich, savory base. In a large stockpot, combine the chopped tomatoes, celery, onion, and garlic, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes until the vegetables soften and the tomatoes release their juices, creating a thick, aromatic blend. Add the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper, then continue simmering for another 15 minutes to infuse the spicy, tangy notes. The resulting mix should have a vivid red hue and a bold flavor profile that tantalizes with heat and acidity, perfect for cocktails or as a standalone sauce.
Can the Mix
With the mix cooked, we move to safe Ball Canning to preserve its freshness. Sterilize your Ball Mason jars, lids, and bands by boiling them in the water bath canner for 10 minutes, then remove them using the jar lifter and place on a clean towel.
| Altitude (feet) | Processing Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| 0–1,000 | 35 |
| 1,001–3,000 | 40 |
| 3,001–6,000 | 45 |
| Above 6,000 | 50 |
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored this Ball Canning Bloody Mary Mix recipe with us. It’s more than just a mix—it’s a way to capture summer’s vibrancy for year-round enjoyment.
By canning your own, you’ll savor bold flavors that elevate any gathering. Trust us, once you try it, this homemade staple will become our go-to for brunches and gifts. Dive in and make it yours today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Ball Canning Bloody Mary Mix?
The main ingredients include 20 pounds of ripe tomatoes, celery, onion, garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. These fresh items combine to create a bold, tangy flavor profile, perfect for capturing summer’s essence in a homemade mix.
How do I prepare the Bloody Mary Mix?
Start by washing and chopping tomatoes, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook them together in a large stockpot with seasonings until flavors meld, then blend for the right consistency. This simple process ensures a rich, savory base ready for canning.
What equipment is required for canning this mix?
You’ll need Ball Mason jars, new lids and bands, a water bath canner, jar lifter, canning funnel, large stockpot, blender or food processor, and measuring tools. These essentials make the process safe and efficient for preserving your mix.
How long does the canned Bloody Mary Mix last?
Properly canned Bloody Mary Mix can last up to 12-18 months in a cool, dark place. Always check seals before use, and refrigerate after opening for up to a week to maintain freshness and safety.
Can I adjust the recipe for spiciness?
Yes, customize by adding more hot sauce or horseradish for extra heat, or reduce them for a milder version. Use fresh ingredients as a base, and taste as you go to balance flavors while ensuring the mix remains safe for canning.
Is this recipe safe for beginners?
Absolutely, it’s beginner-friendly with clear steps and standard canning methods. Follow precise measurements and processing times based on your altitude to avoid risks, and always use proper equipment for a successful first try.
What are the best ways to use this Bloody Mary Mix?
Enjoy it as a base for cocktails at brunches, mix into marinades, or use as a zesty Bloody Mary drink. It’s also great for DIY gifts, adding a homemade touch to any gathering for versatile, flavorful fun.