Tartar sauce is a creamy, tangy condiment that can liven up mild foods like fish, potatoes, and vegetables. While you can buy tartar sauce premade at the grocery store, it’s easy and fun to whip up a batch at home. In this article, I will instruct you how to make the old fashioned tartar sauce allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking.
1. Old Fashioned Tartar Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for the best flavor)
- 2–3 tablespoons dill pickles
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but adds depth)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Finely chop the dill pickles, and parsley. Make sure the pieces are small enough to blend smoothly into the sauce.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, mix the mayonnaise, chopped dill pickles, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, parsley, and onion powder. Stir well to combine all the flavors evenly.
Step 3: Season the Sauce
Add salt and black pepper to taste. Start with a small pinch, taste, and adjust as needed.
Step 4: Let the Flavors Marry
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the tartar sauce for at least 30 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve chilled alongside your favorite seafood dishes, crispy fries, or even as a sandwich spread.
2. Tips for Perfect Tartar Sauce
Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since tartar sauce relies on a few simple components, use quality mayonnaise and fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Chop Finely: Chop the pickles, capers, and parsley finely to create a smooth, creamy sauce with small bursts of texture.
Taste as You Go: Adjust the acidity with lemon juice and balance the seasoning as you mix. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
Refrigerate for Best Flavor: Allow the sauce to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step enhances the depth of flavor as the ingredients meld together.
3. Variations
Sweet Tartar Sauce: Add 1–2 teaspoons of sweet pickle relish instead of dill pickles for a sweeter version of the sauce.
Herb-Infused Tartar Sauce: Include fresh herbs like dill, chives, or tarragon for a more herbaceous flavor.
Spicy Tartar Sauce: Mix in a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or horseradish for a spicy kick.
Yogurt-Based Tartar Sauce: Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangier sauce.
4. What to Do with Tartar Sauce
Serve with Seafood: Tartar sauce is a classic accompaniment to fried fish, fish sticks, shrimp, crab cakes, or baked salmon.
Pair with Fried Foods: Use it as a dip for fried calamari, French fries, onion rings, or chicken tenders.
Spread on Sandwiches: Elevate your sandwiches, burgers, or wraps by spreading tartar sauce on the bread for a creamy, tangy boost of flavor.
Accompany Roasted Vegetables: Serve it alongside roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a unique dipping option.
Use in Potato Salads: Mix a spoonful of tartar sauce into potato salads for an extra layer of creaminess and tang.
5. How to Store Tartar Sauce Properly
Refrigerate Immediately: Always store tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Shelf Life: Homemade tartar sauce can last for up to 1 week when stored properly. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage (such as an off smell or separation).
Avoid Contamination: Use a clean spoon each time you scoop tartar sauce to prevent introducing bacteria.
Freezing: Freezing tartar sauce is not recommended due to the mayonnaise base, which can separate and change texture when thawed.
Making old-fashioned tartar sauce at home is a simple way to elevate your meals. Its tangy, creamy flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, and the ability to customize it ensures it suits your preferences. Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, experimenting with variations and serving options can make this classic condiment even more versatile. Enjoy the satisfaction of making a homemade sauce that’s fresher, tastier, and far superior to store-bought versions!
