Everyone knows that a seafood dish is not quite complete without tartar sauce. Tartar sauce is a tangy condiment that usually accompanies fish, crab legs, calamari and other popular dishes. It is particularly tasty with fried seafood like scampi and shrimp. Because store-bought sauce can be high in fat and calories, try learning how to make tartar sauce at home for a healthier, tastier version.
What is Tartar Sauce Made of?
The base of tartar sauce is mayonnaise. This is what gives its flavor a tangy twist. In addition to mayo, many cooks like adding capers, lemon juice, pickle relish, onions and garlic. You can of course vary the flavor with your personal choice of spices and herbs. Dill and Cajun seasoning are favorites for many cultures.
Nutrients in Tartar Sauce
When learning how to make tartar sauce, keep in mind that you have control over the nutrients it will contain. Try to use healthier ingredients with the least amount of fat. Tartar sauce made with ordinary mayonnaise can contain 70-80 calories per tablespoon. To make a healthier sauce, consider using homemade mayonnaise instead. Not only is homemade mayo creamier, but it is also made of natural ingredients.
Mayonnaise, particularly one made at home with olive oil, contains healthy unsaturated fats. It also has potassium and iron, which are beneficial for blood pressure, muscle, bone and metabolism. Mayonnaise is also a great source of vitamin A, B and E. These vitamins can boost your body’s defense against diseases and enhance brain activity.
How to Make Tartar Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise homemade preferable
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon onion minced
- Pinch of salt and ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add all the ingredients starting with the mayonnaise.
- Mix ingredients until thoroughly combined. For a smoother consistency, pour and blend the mixture in a food processor.
- Seal the top of the bowl with cling wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. Sauce can be stored for up to 7 days.
Nutrition
How to Make Tartar Sauce Tips and Tricks
Be a little adventurous with your seasoning. Add different spices and herbs to find the flavor that is most appealing to your palate. Many cooks also like giving tartar sauce a hint of sweetness by using sweet pickle relish. Others even add a bit of tomato and barbeque sauces. If you don’t like the taste of lemon in your tartar sauce, leave it out or use dehydrated lemon powder instead.
Nothing complements a seafood dish quite like tartar sauce. It is tangy, tasty and – if made with homemade mayonnaise – creamy. With just a few ingredients, you can learn how to make tartar sauce in minutes. Because of its high calorie count, eat in moderation.
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