Easy Tartar Sauce Recipe
What Is Tartar Sauce?
Tartar sauce is a creamy condiment made from a combination of mayonnaise, pickles, and herbs. It is usually used as a dip for fried seafood dishes, such as fish and chips, although it can also be used as a sandwich spread. It is a popular accompaniment to many seafood dishes, such as fried clams and crab cakes, and can also be used as a topping for burgers and hot dogs.
History of Tartar Sauce
The origin of tartar sauce is uncertain, but it is thought to have been created in the late 19th century in France, where it was most likely inspired by the French sauce tartare. This sauce was made with a combination of olive oil, capers, parsley, and shallots. The sauce was then brought to England, where it was adapted to include mayonnaise and pickles, and it eventually made it’s way to the United States.
How to Make Tartar Sauce
Making tartar sauce is surprisingly easy, and only requires a few simple ingredients. All you need is mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. You can use any type of pickles you like, such as dill, sweet, or bread and butter. The herbs can be any combination of parsley, dill, chives, or tarragon. Simply mix all of the ingredients together and season with salt and pepper.
Tips for Making Tartar Sauce
When making tartar sauce, it is important to use good quality ingredients. The mayonnaise should be made with high-quality, light olive oil or canola oil. The pickles should be fresh and crunchy, and the herbs should be fresh as well. You can also add other ingredients to the sauce, such as diced red onion, capers, or horseradish.
Serving Suggestions
Tartar sauce is most commonly served with fried seafood dishes, such as fish and chips, fried clams, and crab cakes. It can also be served as a dip for vegetables, such as carrot and celery sticks, or as a spread for sandwiches. It is also a great topping for burgers and hot dogs.
Storing Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to one week. If you are not using freshly made mayonnaise, it is best to use store-bought mayonnaise, as it has a longer shelf-life.
Variations of Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as horseradish, capers, onion, and garlic. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as cayenne pepper, curry powder, or smoked paprika. If you want to add a bit of heat, you can add a few drops of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Health Benefits of Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce is a healthy alternative to many other condiments, such as ketchup and barbecue sauce. It is made with healthy ingredients, such as mayonnaise and pickles, and it is low in calories and fat. It is also a good source of healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids.
Conclusion
Tartar sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used as a dip, spread, or topping. It is surprisingly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, and it is a healthy alternative to other condiments. It can be served with a variety of dishes, such as fried seafood, burgers, and hot dogs.