The Ultimate Guide to Making Tartar Sauce
Nothing complements a plate of fried fish, calamari or crab cakes better than a dollop of tartar sauce. The tangy and creamy condiment made from simple ingredients adds depth and flavor to any seafood dish. While store-bought versions may be convenient, making your own tartar sauce is easy and far more delicious. Here is the ultimate guide to making tartar sauce with detail steps, healthy versions, comparisons, creative uses, and history.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of minced onion
- 1 tablespoon of chopped capers
- 1 tablespoon of chopped dill pickles
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Equipment:
- Small bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Stir together until the mixture is fully blended
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the tartar sauce sit for 10 minutes to blend the flavors. Serve chilled.
Health Benefits of Tartar Sauce
While you may have heard that tartar sauce has little to no health benefits, the condiment is not entirely devoid of nutrition. Tartar sauce is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are associated with improved heart health. A healthier version of tartar sauce can be made with ingredients such as Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo.
Alternative Ingredients to Use for a Healthier Version
For a healthier version of tartar sauce, there are a variety of ingredient swaps you can make to lower the fat and calorie content. Greek yogurt makes a great base for a healthier tartar sauce. You can also use low-fat mayo or a combination of mayo and Greek yogurt. Dijon mustard adds a tangy flavor while reducing the amount of mayo needed. Fresh herbs such as parsley and dill are great for adding a pop of flavor without piling on calories.
Step-by-Step Instructions on Making a Healthier Version of Tartar Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of minced onion
- 1 tablespoon of chopped capers
- 1 tablespoon of chopped dill pickles
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Equipment:
- Small bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Stir together until the mixture is fully blended
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the tartar sauce sit for 10 minutes to blend the flavors. Serve chilled.
Recipe Comparisons
Tartar sauce is a condiment that can vary greatly depending on the recipe and culture. In France, it is made with vinegar, egg yolks, and olive oil, while in Japan, it is served as a sauce for tempura made of grated radish, soy sauce and grated egg. In Spain, it is served as a salsa verde made of fresh herbs such as parsley, garlic and olive oil.
Detailed Comparison of Different Recipes:
French Tartar Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 cup of olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Japanese Tartar Sauce:
- 1/2 cup of grated daikon radish
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1 grated egg
- 1/4 cup of bonito flakes
Spanish Tartar Sauce:
- 1 cup of fresh parsley
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Creative Uses for Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce doesn’t have to be limited to being a condiment for fried seafood. It can be used as a sandwich spread, dressing, or marinade. Spread tartar sauce on a turkey or roast beef sandwich for an extra boost of flavor. Mix tartar sauce with pasta salad for a tangy dressing. Use tartar sauce as a marinade for pork, chicken, or fish to add a flavor punch.
Explanation of How to Make Different Sauces Using Tartar Sauce as a Base
There are countless sauces that can be made using tartar sauce as a base. Add honey and mustard to tartar sauce for a sweet and tangy sauce perfect for chicken nuggets. Mix Sriracha and tartar sauce together for a spicy, creamy dipping sauce. Add chopped cilantro and lime juice for a bright, zesty dipping sauce for shrimp or chips.
History of Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce has a rich history dating back to France in the early 19th century where it was first made by the famous French culinary giant, Antonin Carême. It is said to have been named after the nomadic Tatars of Central Asia, who were known for their horsemanship and their fiery sauces. Tartar sauce became popular in England in the 19th century and spread to other Western countries. Today, it’s a common condiment throughout the world, particularly for seafood dishes.
Conclusion
Whether you are a history buff or just someone who loves a great condiment, there’s no denying that tartar sauce is a culinary classic. It’s easy to make, versatile, and delicious. Whether you are following the classic recipe or experimenting with different variations, tartar sauce is sure to add a flavorful punch to your dishes.
