Spicy Tomato Juice
Spicy Tomato Juice is a vibrant, flavorful beverage packed with the bright tang of tomatoes, the zest of horseradish, and a hint of hot pepper sauce. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing start, it offers a bold, savory kick that suits those who enjoy spicy, homemade drinks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash tomatoes.
- Remove cores and chop.
- Combine tomatoes, onions, and celery and bring to a boil.
- Continue cooking and stirring for 20 minutes.
- Press through a food mill.
- Heat almost until boiling.
- Stir in lemon juice, sugar, salt, horseradish, Worcestershire, and hot pepper sauce.
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Process in pints or quarts for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the pot. If you prefer a milder juice, reduce the hot pepper sauce or substitute it with a pinch of smoked paprika. You can also use canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren't available, but adjust the salt accordingly. Straining through a fine sieve instead of a food mill can yield a smoother texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spicy tomato juice as a standalone beverage or use it as a base for cocktails like a Bloody Mary. It pairs beautifully with Best Ever Coleslaw for a summer meal or can be enjoyed alongside grilled shrimp for a delightful contrast. Garnish with fresh herbs or a celery stick for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spicy tomato juice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you want to serve it chilled, refrigerate for a couple of hours before serving, as it can be refreshing on hot days.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Tomato Juice contains roughly 368 calories, with 8g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (166% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 501mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the spicy tomato juice ahead of time. In fact, the flavors tend to develop and improve after a day or two in the fridge. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
What can I do if the juice is too spicy?
If your spicy tomato juice turns out too hot, try balancing it with a bit more sugar or lemon juice. Adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt can also help to mellow the heat when serving.
Can I freeze the spicy tomato juice?
Absolutely! You can freeze spicy tomato juice in freezer-safe containers for up to six months. Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).