Tartar sauce is a popular condiment typically served with seafood dishes, especially fried favorites like fish and chips or shrimp. The creamy white sauce has a tangy, savory flavor that perfectly complements breaded seafood. While you can always grab tartar sauce packets at the supermarket, homemade tartar sauce is quick and easy to prepare, allowing you to control the flavor and ingredients.
If buying pre-made tartar sauce, you'll want to check the ingredient label and choose high-quality versions without additives or preservatives. This buying guide takes a deeper look at tartar sauce, from its history to key ingredients, and provides tips for selecting the best store-bought or homemade tartar sauce.
Bookbinders Sauce Tartar
You're looking for a tartar sauce that will really make your seafood pop. Look no further than Bookbinders Sauce Tartar. This rich, flavorful tartar sauce is the perfect complement to any fish, shrimp, or crab dish.
As soon as you open the jar, you'll notice the thick, creamy texture. This isn't your average runny tartar sauce - Bookbinders has crafted their recipe to achieve an indulgent, sumptuous mouthfeel. The sauce coats your tastebuds with the ideal balance of tangy and sweet. There's just enough vinegar to cut through the richness, while a touch of sugar rounds things out. With each bite, you'll get a satisfying crunch from the chopped pickles and a slight kick of horseradish.
Key features:
- Made with egg yolks for a rich, velvety texture
- Includes horseradish for a spicy kick
- Chunky with pickles, onions, and relish
Pros:
- Well-balanced sweet and tangy flavor
- Thick and creamy consistency
- Adds lots of flavor to seafood
Cons:
- Contains preservatives
Colman's Tartare Sauce Imported From The UK
For an authentic British tartare sauce experience, look no further than Colman's Tartare Sauce Imported From The UK. This top-selling condiment brings a taste of England straight to your plate.
The first thing you'll notice is the vibrant, tangy flavor - it's no accident this sauce contains twice as much chili as other brands! This zesty zip is balanced out by creamy, eggy richness. Every spoonful delivers a satisfying crunch from chopped gherkins and capers. Subtle notes of lemon, mustard seed, and dill round out the medley of flavors.
Key features:
- Made in Norfolk, England according to a traditional recipe
- Twice the chili pepper for extra zing
- Contains gherkins and capers for crunch
Pros:
- Bright, tangy flavor from vinegar
- Includes signature English ingredients like malt vinegar
-balanced sweetness
Cons:
- Small jar size
Inglehoffer Seafood Tartar Sauce
For a tartar sauce with an ultra-creamy texture, try Inglehoffer Seafood Tartar Sauce. This top-selling condiment has a smooth, luxurious mouthfeel that coats seafood in rich flavor.
The first thing you'll notice is the thick, velvety texture - almost like a flavorful mayonnaise. There's none of the separation or oiliness you see in lower quality bottled sauces. It spreads onto fish fillets and shrimp effortlessly. The balanced, tangy taste comes from a blend of vinegars and lemon juice concentrate. There's just enough sugar to round out the acidity. Every bite rewards you with a satisfying crunch from relish, peppers, and capers sprinkled throughout.
Key features:
- Ultra-thick and creamy texture
- Made with egg yolks for richness
- Contains crunchy relish, peppers, and capers
Pros:
- Velvety smooth mouthfeel
- Bright, tangy flavor from vinegars
- No separation or oiliness
Cons:
- Contains xanthan gum thickener
Bookbinders Sauce Tartar 2 Pack
For a tartar sauce you can feel good about, try this two-pack of Bookbinders Sauce Tartar. Bookbinders is known for crafting rich, homemade style condiments you'll be proud to serve.
As soon as you open the jar, you'll be met with a rich, eggy aroma - this tartar sauce gets its velvety texture from egg yolks. The balanced, tangy taste comes from a blend of vinegar and lemon juice. There's just enough sugar to round out the acidity. Every bite rewards you with crunchy bits of relish, providing texture. The addition of horseradish gives a satisfying kick that pairs perfectly with seafood.
Key features:
- Made with egg yolks for a creamy texture
- Contains horseradish for a spicy kick
- Includes relish for crunch and texture
Pros:
- Well-balanced sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors
- Thick and rich consistency
- Adds lots of flavor to fish and shrimp
Cons:
- Contains preservatives
Duke's Tartar Sauce
For a tartar sauce with authentic Southern flair, try Duke's Tartar Sauce. This top-selling condiment combines Duke's beloved mayonnaise recipe with a zesty tartar sauce flavor.
The first thing you'll notice is the ultra-rich, velvety texture - Duke's only uses egg yolks in their mayonnaise, lending a luxurious mouthfeel. There's none of the separation you see in lower quality bottled sauces. It coats seafood in flavor. The bright, tangy taste comes from a proprietary blend of spices and vinegar. There's just enough sweetness to balance the acidity.
Key features:
- Made with egg yolks for an ultra-rich texture
- Unique blend of spices and vinegar
- Free of separation or oiliness
Pros:
- Thick, velvety texture
- Tangy flavor with a touch of sweetness
- Made by a trusted Southern brand
Cons:
- Small 8 oz jar
McCormick Golden Dipt Tartar Sauce
McCormick's tartar sauce provides a pleasant acidity that makes it a good condiment option. When you open the bottle, you'll notice it has a smooth, creamy texture reminiscent of mayonnaise but with a hint of tanginess from the added vinegar and lemon.
While the pickle relish chunks give it some crunch, they are on the smaller side. The lemon and vinegar flavors really come through, making this an enjoyable lemony tartar sauce. It can be used not only with seafood, but also to dress up sandwiches, burgers, fries or tater tots.
Some may find the strong tartness overpowering, so you may want to dilute it with mayo if too sour for your tastes. The easy squirt bottle makes it convenient to drizzle over your favorite foods. Overall, it's a quality tartar sauce that provides a zingy kick.
Key features:
- Squirt bottle for easy drizzling
- Lemony tang
- Smooth, creamy texture
Pros:
- Pleasant lemony flavor
- Versatile on many foods
- Quality ingredients
Cons:
- Small pickle relish chunks
- Can be overly tart for some
Legal Sea Foods House Tartar Sauce
Inspired by Legal Sea Food's recipe, this premium tartar sauce hits all the right notes. It delivers a complex, robust flavor with a smooth, creamy texture that is simply delicious. The addition of dill, pickled relish, and onions gives it herbaceous and tangy undertones that pair perfectly with seafood.
When you open the jar, you'll notice the generous chunks of relish and onion that provide enjoyable crunch and texture. The aioli-like base made from quality ingredients balances the acidity nicely, so it doesn't overpower the palate. Drizzled on fish, this Legal Sea Foods tartar sauce really helps flavors pop. It takes seafood, sandwiches and more to the next level.
While it is one of the pricier options, the refined taste and ability to elevate dishes makes it worth the splurge for special occasions or meals. It's a restaurant-quality tartar sauce you can enjoy from the comfort of home.
Key features:
- Inspired by Legal Sea Foods recipe
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Generous relish chunks
Pros:
- Complex, robust flavor
- Pairs perfectly with seafood
- Quality ingredients
Cons:
- One of the pricier options
Kraft Tartar Sauce
When you think classic tartar sauce, Kraft is likely the first brand that comes to mind. This nostalgic tartar sauce brings back memories of beloved fast food fish sandwiches. It delivers a sweet yet tangy flavor that really comes through and makes this one of the most distinctive tartar sauces out there.
The sauce has a trademark thick, creamy texture and consistency you expect from Kraft. The tanginess from the added vinegar and lemon cuts through rich foods like fried seafood beautifully. It also contains natural preservatives to maintain freshness. The squeeze bottles make drizzling it over foods convenient and mess-free.
This versatile condiment can transform a basic meal of fish sticks or burgers into something special. While it does contain common artificial ingredients found in processed foods, the bold, timeless flavor is hard to resist. It's an indulgent tartar sauce classic.
Key features:
- Squeeze bottle for drizzling
- Sweet yet tangy flavor
- Thick, creamy texture
Pros:
- Very distinctive tart flavor
- Versatile condiment
- Value pricing
Cons:
- Contains artificial ingredients
Frisch's Tartar Sauce
Frisch's tartar sauce is a go-to for those fond of the flavor served at the popular restaurant chain's Big Boy burgers. It provides a creamy base with zesty bursts from the addition of pickles, onions, and spices. Each bite packs a tangy crunch from the generous chunks in every jar.
The smooth, mayonnaise-like texture coats the palate nicely, allowing the vinegary tastes to shine through. This tartar sauce skips the added sugar that makes others too sweet. Drizzled on burgers or dunked with fried seafood, it complements without overpowering.
As a regional favorite not sold nationwide, it can be hard to find outside the Midwest. Ordering online lets anyone enjoy this cult-favorite condiment. It brings the signature Frisch's flavor that diners crave to home kitchens across the country.
Key features:
- Beloved Big Boy sauce
- Generous pickle chunks
- Smooth, creamy texture
Pros:
- Signature Frisch's flavor
- No added sugars
- Zesty tanginess
Cons:
- Regional favorite can be hard to find
Frisch's Big Boy Tartar Sauce
Frisch's Big Boy tartar sauce perfectly replicates the zesty condiment served at the popular diner chain. Each jar contains a creamy base punctuated by tangy bursts of flavor from bits of pickle, onion, and spices. The addition of egg yolk gives it a rich, satisfying mouthfeel.
This smooth, velvety sauce nicely coats foods without being overly heavy. It brings that signature tang fans love without any cloying sweetness. The small 9 oz jars are perfect for keeping some on hand to elevate everyday meals. A dollop adds Frisch's flavor to burgers, sandwiches, fries and more.
While it can be hard to find outside of Frisch's restaurants in Ohio and Kentucky, it's worth ordering online to enjoy the zesty tartar sauce that has diners hooked. It's ideal for those looking to recreate the Big Boy sandwich experience in their own home.
Key features:
- Signature Frisch's tangy flavor
- Creamy, velvety texture
- 9 oz jars
Pros:
- No added sugars
- Elevates everyday meals
- Perfect for Big Boy fans
Cons:
- Regional sauce hard to find
Tartar Sauce Buying Guide
Tartar sauce has a long history and interesting origin story. Let's start with a closer look at how this popular condiment came to be a staple pairing for fried seafood dishes.
History of Tartar Sauce
The first tartar sauces originated in French cuisine in the mid-1700s. The sauce was served as an accompaniment for tartares, which were dishes of finely chopped or minced raw meats. The original tartar sauces were made by emulsifying egg yolk with mustard, herbs, vinegar or lemon juice, and olive oil or sunflower oil. This basic recipe could be customized with various spices, shallots, garlic, or other ingredients on hand.
In the late 1800s, tartar sauce became associated with seafood dishes, not raw meat. As fried seafood grew in popularity, especially classic fish and chips, the tangy tartar sauce was served alongside to cut the richness of the crisp fried coating. Restaurants and home cooks put their own spin on tartar sauce recipes matched to the type of seafood. Tartar sauce became a ubiquitous condiment found on American tables and in restaurants during the 1900s. Pre-made tartar sauce could be purchased, but most home cooks mixed up small batches as needed.
Today, tartar sauce is still commonly paired with fried fish, shrimp, calamari, and other breaded seafood dishes. The convenience of commercially prepared tartar sauces means you can easily grab a bottle at the store instead of making it from scratch. However, homemade tartar sauce allows you to control the flavor profile and ingredients used. It also tends to taste fresher and less processed.
Key Tartar Sauce Ingredients
The base of nearly all tartar sauce recipes includes mayonnaise and chopped pickles or pickle relish. Mayonnaise provides the creamy texture and binds the sauce, while the pickled elements like dill pickles, capers, or relish add delicious acidity, tang, and crunch. Recipes can also include some combination of the following ingredients:
- Dill - Fresh or dried dill weed gives tartar sauce its signature flavor. The herb's anise-like aroma pairs perfectly with seafood.
- Parsley - Italian flat-leaf parsley is another herb that features prominently in many tartar sauce recipes. The fresh, grassy flavor balances nicely with richer ingredients.
- Shallots or onions - Minced shallots or onions lend a subtle allium bite.
- Garlic - A little grated or minced garlic can provide a nice undertone.
- Lemon juice - Adds bright acidity to cut the richness of fried seafood. Lime juice can also be substituted.
- Mustard - Yellow mustard boosts the tangy flavor and helps emulsify the sauce. Dijon or spicy mustard can be used for a more pungent note.
- Hot sauce - A few dashes of Tabasco, sriracha, or other hot sauce provides heat.
- Paprika - Smoked, sweet, or spicy paprika can be sprinkled on for color and flavor.
- Salt and pepper - Season with salt and pepper to taste.
The ingredients are mixed together by hand or in a food processor to form an emulsified creamy sauce. Recipes generally call for about 2 parts mayonnaise to 1 part pickle relish or chopped pickles and other flavoring ingredients. Homemade tartar sauce will keep in the refrigerator for 4-5 days in an airtight container.
Types of Store-Bought Tartar Sauce
If you don't have time to make tartar sauce from scratch, you can always rely on pre-made versions found at any grocery store. Mass-produced tartar sauces have a much longer shelf life, lasting for months unopened. However, they often contain preservatives and stabilizers for texture. Here are some of the most common types of pre-made tartar sauce:
- Mayonnaise-based - Most store-bought tartar sauces consist of mayonnaise with relish and spices added. They have a smoother, more homogenized texture than homemade.
- Real mayonnaise - Some brands use real mayonnaise in their recipe instead of a mayo-like concoction. Check labels for "made with real mayonnaise".
- Healthy or light - Lower fat or fat-free versions made with low fat mayo, yogurt, or milk.
- Name brand - Popular mayonnaise brands like Hellmann's also offer tartar sauce.
- Generic/store brand - Cheaper versions from grocery store chains thatmimic brand name tartar sauce.
- Seafood-specific - Pre-made sauces seasoned for shrimp, crab, fish, etc.
- Spicy - Contains hot sauce or chili pepper for a kick of heat.
- All natural - Tartar sauces with no artificial ingredients or preservatives.
- Gluten-free - Made without wheat/gluten ingredients.
- Paleo/keto - Special diet-friendly options with approved ingredients.
No matter which type of pre-made tartar sauce you choose, inspect the ingredient list closely. Look for options with more natural, recognizable ingredients and no unnecessary additives.
FAQ
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about tartar sauce:
What's the difference between tartar sauce and cocktail sauce?
Cocktail sauce is made mainly from ketchup or chili sauce, while tartar sauce is mayonnaise-based. Cocktail sauce tastes sweeter, more tomatoey, and less creamy. The two sauces serve different purposes - cocktail for shrimp and tartar for fish.
What kind of pickles work best?
Grinding up dill pickles or pickle relish gives the best tangy flavor. Cornichons, caper berries, or bread and butter pickles also work well. Avoid sweet gherkins.
Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayo?
You can, but the flavor will be sweeter and tangier. Stick to regular mayonnaise for the best classic tartar sauce flavor.
Is tartar sauce spicy?
Traditional tartar sauce is not spicy. However, you can add hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it a kick. Pre-made spicy varieties are also available.
How long does homemade tartar sauce last?
Up to 5 days stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Discard if smell or consistency becomes unpleasant.
How long is pre-made tartar sauce good for once opened?
About 2 months past the "best by" date if refrigerated and tightly sealed. Discard if any mold develops.
Can I freeze tartar sauce?
Yes, freeze homemade or store-bought tartar sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
What's the difference between tartar sauce and remoulade?
Remoulade contains more raw, grated vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. The flavor is more vegetable-focused rather than pickle-focused.
What can I use instead of dill pickles?
You can substitute pickled onion, capers, olives, jalapeno slices, or giardiniera for a different flavor profile.
Can you make vegan tartar sauce?
Yes, use vegan mayo and omit any egg yolks. Pickles, lemon juice, mustard, and dijon form the tangy base flavor.
What's the easiest/quickest tartar sauce recipe?
Simply mix 1 cup mayo, 1 to 3 tablespoons pickle relish, 1 teaspoon Dijon, and a squeeze of lemon. Adjust to taste.
Conclusion
From its French origins as a sauce for raw meats to the classic seafood accompaniment we know today, tartar sauce has a storied history on tables around the world. While you can purchase ready-made versions, homemade tartar sauce allows you to customize the flavor and control the ingredients used. Look for quality pre-made sauces made with real mayonnaise and natural ingredients when shortcutting the homemade route. Whether you prefer to quickly mix up your own tartar sauce or grab a bottle from the store, this versatile condiment is the perfect finishing touch for crispy fried seafood dishes.
Resources:
- Food Network - Tartar Sauce Recipe: Link
- This recipe from Food Network provides a simple and easy-to-follow guide to making tartar sauce at home. It includes a list of ingredients, measurements, and instructions for preparation. The recipe uses mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, white onion, lemon juice, and pickle juice.
- Allrecipes - Tartar Sauce Recipe: Link
- Allrecipes offers a highly-rated tartar sauce recipe with user reviews and ratings. The recipe includes mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, minced onion, lemon juice, and hot pepper sauce. Users can also customize the recipe to their liking by adding or subtracting ingredients.
- Food Network Kitchen - Tartar Sauce Recipe: Link
- This recipe from Food Network Kitchen provides a unique twist on traditional tartar sauce by adding capers, tarragon, and scallions. The recipe includes mayonnaise, cornichons, parsley, lemon zest, and hot sauce. The recipe is easy to follow and includes helpful tips for preparation.