Long John Silvers Tartar Sauce Recipe

Do you love that tangy, creamy sauce from the famous seafood spot? This Long John Silvers Tartar Sauce Recipe brings that classic flavor to your kitchen.

If you crave that signature zing, you are in the right place. Learning how to make Long John Silvers Tartar Sauce Recipe at home is surprisingly easy.

It uses simple pantry staples you likely already have. This Long John Silvers Tartar Sauce Recipe will elevate your fish dinner to a whole new level of deliciousness.

What Makes This Tartar Sauce Special

This sauce is famous for a reason. It is much better than the jars you find at the store. It has a perfect balance of sweet and sour notes. The texture is creamy but has a nice crunch from the onions. Most people love the subtle kick it provides.

It is designed to cut through the richness of fried seafood. Making it at home means no preservatives. Plus, the flavor gets better as it sits in the fridge. It truly tastes like the real deal from the restaurant.

Equipment List

• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or large spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Small food processor (optional)
• Airtight glass jar for storage

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Long John Silvers Tartar Sauce Recipe
• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Total Time: 10 mins
• Course: Condiment/Sauce
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 95 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Long John Silvers Tartar Sauce Recipe

• 1 cup high-quality Mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Sweet Pickle Relish
• 2 tablespoons Minced White Onion
• 1 tablespoon Prepared Yellow Mustard
• 1 teaspoon Dried Tarragon (crushed)
• 1/2 teaspoon Granulated Sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep the Onion

Finely mince your white onion. You want very small pieces so the flavor spreads evenly. If the pieces are too big, the texture will be chunky. Use a sharp knife for the best results.

2. Measure the Base

Scoop one cup of mayonnaise into your mixing bowl. Use a full-fat version for the creamiest results. Smooth it out with your spoon to remove any air pockets. This is the heart of the sauce.

3. Add the Relish

Add the sweet pickle relish to the mayonnaise. Make sure to include a little bit of the juice. This adds sweetness and a tiny bit of vinegar. It gives the sauce that classic green speckled look.

4. Mix in the Mustard

Stir in the yellow mustard. This provides the bright yellow color and a sharp tang. It helps balance the sweetness of the relish. Mix until the color is a pale, creamy yellow.

5. Spice it Up

Add the dried tarragon, sugar, and black pepper. Crush the tarragon between your fingers as you drop it in. This releases the oils and makes it smell amazing. The sugar rounds out the sharp edges.

6. Blend Together

Whisk everything together vigorously. You want a uniform texture throughout the entire bowl. Ensure the spices are not clumped in one spot. Taste a small amount to check the balance of flavors.

7. Let it Chill

Transfer the sauce to a glass jar. Place it in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes. Chilling allows the dried herbs to soften. The flavors will meld together and taste much deeper.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use Fresh Onion: Always use fresh onion instead of onion powder for the best crunch.
• Crush the Herbs: Don’t skip crushing the dried tarragon. It is the “secret” ingredient for that authentic taste.
• Vegan Option: You can use vegan mayo to make this dairy-free and plant-based.
• Add Lemon: If you like extra zing, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
• Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper if you want a spicy tartar sauce.
• Chill Longer: If you have time, let it sit overnight. The flavor doubles in intensity.

Interesting Facts About Tartar Sauce

Tartar sauce actually originated in France. It was named after the Tartars who settled in Eastern Europe. Traditionally, it was served with steak tartare. Over time, it became the go-to sauce for seafood lovers everywhere.

The Long John Silvers version is unique because of the tarragon. Most store-bought brands leave that herb out. That is why homemade versions always taste more “fancy” and authentic.

Perfect Dishes to Serve With Tartar Sauce

This sauce is very versatile. Of course, it belongs next to a pile of fried fish fillets. It is also incredible with crispy fried shrimp or hushpuppies. Try dipping your French fries in it for a change.

It works well as a spread on a fried chicken sandwich too. Some people even use it as a dressing for cold pasta salad. It adds a creamy, herb-filled punch to any savory dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store Cold: Always keep this sauce in the refrigerator.
• Airtight Container: Use a jar with a tight lid to keep it fresh.
• Shelf Life: It stays good for up to two weeks if stored properly.
• Do Not Freeze: Mayonnaise-based sauces separate and get watery if you freeze them.
• Stir Before Use: Give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the oils.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	95 kcal
Total Fat	9g
Sodium	180mg
Total Carbs	3g
Sugars	2g
Protein	0.2g

Health Benefits

While tartar sauce is a treat, it does have some benefits. Using real onions adds a small boost of antioxidants. Tarragon is known to help with digestion and heart health.

If you use a mayonnaise made with avocado oil, you get healthy fats. Making it at home is the healthiest choice. You avoid high fructose corn syrup and artificial colors. It is a much cleaner way to enjoy your favorite fast-food flavors.

FAQs about Long John Silvers Tartar Sauce Recipe

Can I use Dill Relish instead of Sweet Relish?

You can, but it will change the flavor significantly. Sweet relish is the key to the authentic Long John Silvers taste. If you use dill, add an extra pinch of sugar to compensate.

How long does this sauce need to sit before eating?

You can eat it right away, but it won’t be as good. Waiting at least 30 minutes lets the flavors wake up. An hour is even better for the best results.

What is the “secret ingredient” in this recipe?

The secret is definitely the dried tarragon. Most people think it is just relish and mayo. The tarragon adds a slight licorice note that makes it stand out from basic brands.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients for Long John Silvers Tartar Sauce Recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your mayonnaise and mustard labels to ensure they were processed in a safe facility.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Long John Silvers Tartar Sauce Recipe at home is a total game-changer. It is fast, cheap, and tastes incredibly fresh.

Your family will think you went to the restaurant and brought some home! I hope you enjoy this creamy, tangy addition to your next seafood night.

It truly is the perfect topping for crispy fish. Happy cooking, and enjoy every single bite of your homemade creation!