Tartar Sauce

10 servings Prep: 10 m Cook: PT0M Total: 10 m Beginner
4.0/5 (1)
Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce is a thick, tangy sauce usually served with fried seafood like catfish, shrimp, or oysters. It’s better if prepared several hours before you will be using it to let the flavors meld, but it can be used immediately if you’re in a pinch.

Ingredients

10 servings
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp pickle relish
  • 2 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 2 sprinkles of fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for several hours (preferably 2-4 hours) to let the flavors meld. Can be used immediately if needed. Enjoy with any kind of fried seafood like fried catfish, fried shrimp, or fried oysters.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my tartar sauce too thin?

A: Make sure you're using thick mayonnaise, not salad dressing or Miracle Whip. If it's still too thin, drain your pickle relish well before adding it, or use finely chopped pickles instead and squeeze out excess moisture.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! In fact, it's better when made ahead. The flavors meld and improve after 2-4 hours in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week in an airtight container.

Tips and Techniques

For the best flavor, use good quality mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Fresh lemon juice is preferable to bottled. If you like a chunkier texture, finely chop dill pickles instead of using relish, and add a tablespoon of chopped capers for extra tang.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • pickle relish: finely chopped dill pickles
  • dijon mustard: yellow mustard or creole mustard
  • fresh parsley: dried parsley or fresh dill

Equipment Needed

  • mixing bowl
  • measuring spoons
  • whisk or spoon