Here's Why a Bloody Bull is Better Than a Bloody Mary

Updated Apr 16, 2026 · 2 min read

My family has a long history of being Bloody Mary fans. Evidence: We sip them prior to dinner at my parents' house. No matter the time, we are always up for a slurp of spicy, alcoh.

With beef broth added for depth and umami, the Bloody Bull is a delectable take on the traditional Bloody Mary. Here's a breakdown of what makes it special, along with a nod to Simon Gibson's method at Brooklyn Star.

The Bull that Blew

It is said to have started at Brennan's in New Orleans.

**Key Ingredient**: Beef broth, which gives the drink a savory depth and makes it great.

**Traditional Components**: The classic Bloody Mary ingredients of tomato juice, horseradish, celery salt, and hot sauce must be balanced.

The Ideal Bully

**Simon Gibson's Approach**:

aiming for a thick, nutrient-dense beverage with a robust vegetable foundation (consistency).

The cocktail itself and the homemade beef broth are made with **Guinness**, the secret ingredient. By adding body and umami, this produces a frothy texture without diluting it.

  

Serving Suggestion

To add even more flavor, Gibson suggests adding tangy pickled green beans as a garnish to the Bloody Bull.

**Pairing**: Savor it with substantial foods, such as Brooklyn Star's fried pigtails.

### Try It at Home

Even though you might not have access to Brooklyn Star, you can still make a tasty cocktail by using high-quality ingredients and adhering to Gibson's philosophy of enhancing the cocktail with broth and beer. Cheers to enjoying this delicious treat!