The Bloody Devil is no gentle drink – it bites. The combination of sweet-sour orange juice, tart vodka, and sharp grenadine results in a blood-red beverage that stands out not only visually. A hint of Tabasco or a pinch of chili flakes makes it the perfect companion for spooky evenings. Those who prefer it less fiery can simply leave out the chili, but then the devilish element is missing.
And this is what you need for the Bloody Devil
4 cl Vodka
2 cl Grenadine
6 cl freshly squeezed orange juice
2–3 dashes Tabasco or 1 pinch of chili flakes (to taste)
Ice cubes
What matters
The grenadine must truly be high-quality – cheap syrups taste like artificial cherry flavor and ruin the drink. If you can’t find good grenadine, use 1 cl raspberry syrup and 1 cl simple syrup instead. Important: The orange juice should be freshly squeezed, otherwise the drink will taste flat. If using Tabasco, dose carefully – the drink should be spicy, but not undrinkable.
Variations
- Bloody Devil with Lemon — Replace the orange juice with 5 cl lemon juice and 1 cl simple syrup. The result is more sour and less sweet, but just as intense.
- Non-alcoholic Bloody Devil — Omit the vodka and replace it with 4 cl ginger ale or non-alcoholic vodka substitute. The spiciness remains, but the drink becomes milder.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the drink without chili?
Yes, but then the devilish element is missing. The spiciness balances the sweetness of the grenadine and makes the drink more interesting. If you prefer it mild, try just one dash of Tabasco first – that’s often enough.
Why does my Bloody Devil taste like cough syrup?
This is usually due to the grenadine. Cheap syrups contain artificial flavors that make the drink unpleasant. Instead, use high-quality grenadine or mix your own: 1 part raspberry syrup with 1 part simple syrup.
Can I prepare the drink in advance?
Yes, but without ice and chili. Mix vodka, grenadine, and orange juice in advance and chill the mixture. Shake briefly just before serving, pour into the glass, and add the spiciness.
