Sep 4

SOUTHERN TARTAR SAUCE

Updated: Sep 27

This homemade Southern tartar sauce recipe takes 10 minutes to make and elevates any fried fish!

If you're looking for something to dip in it, try my fried catfish, fried bluegill, or fried speckled trout cakes. It's the perfect accompaniment to any fish fry!

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It's worth passing on the pre-made versions you find in grocery stores when it comes to foods that are this easy to make while using simple ingredients. I can't promise your kids will finish their entire dinner, but my guess is those fish sticks and fish filet sandwiches will be gone after trying this creamy dipping sauce.

How to Make Tartar Sauce:

Combine mayonnaise, pickle relish, onion, fresh dill weed, and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For the best flavor, I recommend using good-quality mayonnaise such as Dukes, Hellman's, or Blue Plate.

Make Ahead and Storage Instructions:

Tartar sauce is best made a couple of hours before you plan to serve it so the flavors can meld. To extend the shelf life of the sauce, wait to add the onion until just before serving. This will keep the sauce fresh and vibrant.

Getting the Perfect Consistency:

The best way to achieve the right texture for this creamy condiment is to cut and mix everything by hand. It may be tempting to use the speed of a food processor, but this can ruin your sauce. If processed too long, the vegetables will release excess moisture, making your homemade sauce watery and intact.

Recipe Variations:

Smoky Tartar Sauce: Add in a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the sauce.

Add Capers: Add in one to two tablespoons of chopped capers for added tangy flavors.

Add Sweet Relish: Use sweet pickle relish for a milder-tasting sauce and a hint of sweetness.

Use Different Herbs: Fresh herbs are a must "so skip the dried dill." Chives, sweet basil and fresh parsley are also great additions

Lastly, if you try this southern creamy tartar sauce recipe, be sure to leave a comment or tag me the next time you're on Instagram! I thoroughly enjoy hearing feedback and checking out the photos of recipes that you've made.

HOMEMADE SOUTHERN TARTAR SAUCE

Prep Time: 10 Minutes

Yield: 2 1/2 cups

Author: Larry White

INGREDIENTS

1 3/4 cups of mayonnaise
1/4 cup dill pickle relish or chopped dill pickles
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
3/4 cup finely chopped sweet onion
kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

Add all of the ingredients to a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
Season to taste with salt and ground black pepper.
Adjust the flavor if needed by adding a little pickle juice, fresh lemon juice, dill, or pickles.
Add a dash of hot sauce if you like a little kick of spiciness.