Captain D’s Tartar Sauce is a beloved condiment that pairs perfectly with a variety of seafood dishes. Known for its creamy texture and tangy flavor, this sauce has a special place in the hearts of many seafood lovers. In this article, we will explore the history of Captain D’s Tartar Sauce, why it stands out, what it’s made of, and how you can recreate this delicious sauce at home.
| Servings | Total |
| 8 | 10mins |
History of Captain D’s Tartar Sauce
Captain D’s, a popular seafood restaurant chain, has been serving up delicious seafood since 1969. The tartar sauce quickly became a fan favorite, complementing their fried fish and other seafood dishes perfectly. Over the years, the recipe has remained a closely guarded secret, known only to a select few within the company. The consistent taste and quality of Captain D’s Tartar Sauce have made it a staple for seafood lovers nationwide.
Why Captain D’s Tartar Sauce
Captain D’s Tartar Sauce is cherished for its perfect balance of flavors. It’s not just a side condiment; it’s an essential part of the dining experience at Captain D’s. The creamy base, combined with tangy and slightly sweet notes, enhances the flavor of any seafood dish. It’s versatile, pairing well with fried fish, shrimp, and even as a dip for fries.
What is Captain D’s Tartar Sauce Made of?
Captain D’s Tartar Sauce combines simple yet flavorful ingredients to create its signature taste. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this delicious sauce:
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce.
- Dill Pickle Relish: Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Provides a fresh, zesty kick.
- Onion: Finely chopped for added texture and flavor.
- Capers: Adds a unique briny taste.
- Dill: Fresh or dried, it enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic touch.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
What to Have with Captain D’s Tartar Sauce
Captain D’s Tartar Sauce pairs excellently with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to try:
- Fried Fish: The classic pairing.
- Shrimp: Both fried and grilled.
- Crab Cakes: Adds a tangy complement to the rich crab meat.
- French Fries: A delightful dipping sauce alternative to ketchup.
- Fish Tacos: Adds a creamy, tangy layer of flavor.
- Vegetable Sticks: Great as a dip for a healthy snack.
Is Captain D’s Tartar Sauce Healthy?
While Captain D’s Tartar Sauce is delicious, it’s essential to enjoy it in moderation due to its high-calorie content from mayonnaise. It does contain some beneficial ingredients like dill and capers, which add flavor without significantly increasing calories. For a healthier version, you can use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a base.
Kitchen Equipment
To make Captain D’s Tartar Sauce at home, you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Spoon
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dill Pickle Relish
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 tablespoon Finely Chopped Onion
- 1 tablespoon Capers, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dried Dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Finely chop the onion and capers. If using fresh dill, chop it as well.
- In a mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, lemon juice, chopped onion, capers, and dill.
- Using a whisk or spoon, mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix again to ensure even distribution.
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Enjoy your homemade Captain D’s Tartar Sauce with your favorite seafood dishes.
Tips
- Prepare the sauce a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice, dill, or relish to suit your personal preference.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Conclusion
Captain D’s Tartar Sauce is a timeless classic that enhances the flavor of any seafood dish. Making it at home is simple and allows you to enjoy this beloved condiment any time you wish. Whether you’re hosting a seafood feast or just looking to add a little something extra to your meal, this tartar sauce is sure to impress.
MORE RECIPES
The Best Captain D’s Tartar Sauce
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or Spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dill Pickle Relish
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 tablespoon Finely Chopped Onion
- 1 tablespoon Capers, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dried Dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Finely chop the onion and capers. If using fresh dill, chop it as well.
- In a mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, lemon juice, chopped onion, capers, and dill.
- Using a whisk or spoon, mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix again to ensure even distribution.
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Enjoy your homemade Captain D's Tartar Sauce with your favorite seafood dishes.