The Best Tartar Sauce: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Homemade Tartar Sauce Store-Bought Tartar Sauce Taste Preference: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

The world of tartar sauce is vast and varied, with many eager home chefs and eager eaters seeking the perfect condiment to complement their seafood dishes. Whether you are an avid fan of making homemade tartar sauce, or you prefer the convenience of store-bought options, the best tartar sauce depends on your personal taste and preference.

Homemade Tartar Sauce

One of the simplest condiments to prepare, homemade tartar sauce has been a favorite for ages. Creating this tangy, zesty condiment is an easy task that only requires a few ingredients. The most common method involves mixing mayonnaise or Miracle Whip with pickle relish (dill or sweet), and you can add a finely minced onion for a bit of extra texture. If you enjoy a little more spice, you can incorporate a bit of onion powder. Varying the ingredients to suit your taste is what many people love about this condiment.

Why settle for someone else's interpretation of a great condiment when you can create it yourself? Making your own is not only controlling the taste, but it's also relatively cheap and easier than you might think. The key ingredients to a classic tartar sauce are:

Mayonnaise or Miracle Whip (may be adjusted according to taste) Pickle relish (dill or sweet) Finely minced onion (optional) Lemon juice Mustard and Worcestershire sauce (optional for added flavor) Minced capers and parsley (optional for extra zest)

Remember, tartar sauce is flexible. The base is mayonnaise and relish, and you can add other ingredients based on your preference. Allow the mixture to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours to let the flavors blend properly.

Store-Bought Tartar Sauce

Not everyone has the luxury of time to make their own tartar sauce. Fortunately, there are many store-bought options available. Some popular brands include Kraft, Hellman's, and Hellmann's Miracle Whip, among others. According to user ratings, the best stores for tartar sauce include:

Americas Choice - 4.7 out of 10, priced at $0.17 per ounce Hellmans - 4.3 out of 10, priced at $0.22 per ounce Kraft - 4.1 out of 10, priced at $0.17 per ounce Trader Joes - 3.9 out of 10, priced at $0.25 per ounce Bookbinders - 3.3 out of 10, priced at $0.36 per ounce Woebers - 2.6 out of 10, priced at $0.26 per ounce schrotterbeck and Foss - 2.6 out of 10, priced at $0.62 per ounce Whole Foods - 2.2 out of 10, priced at $0.50 per ounce

Hemans and Kraft are often praised for their similarity to homemade recipes, and they are also relatively inexpensive. Walmart's house brand is another favorite for its flavor and cost-effectiveness.

Taste Preference: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

When it comes to choosing between homemade and store-bought tartar sauce, the answer lies in personal preference. Homemade tartar sauce allows you to customize the flavors to your heart's content, ensuring it fits your taste perfectly. On the other hand, store-bought tartar sauce offers convenience and consistency, making it a go-to option for those short on time.

My wife and I personally prefer Kraft. This brand strikes a balance between homemade texture and flavor, making it a versatile choice. Whether you choose to go the homemade route or rely on store-bought options, remember that tartar sauce is a recipe waiting to be tailored to your tastes.

Whether you're looking to boost the flavor of a seafood dish or just want to explore the world of condiments, tartar sauce is a versatile addition to your kitchen. Experiment, customize, and enjoy the perfect tartar sauce recipe tailored just for you!