Captain D’s Tartar Sauce Recipe

I’m a big fan of creamy sauces, especially when they’re paired with fried items, sandwiches, seafood, and proteins. I believe you’ll also love this fantastic combination. Captain D’s Tartar Sauce recipe is a hit in our home, not just with me, but with my children too. The perfect balance of sweet and sour in this sauce adds an incredible flavor to every bite. It’s truly a taste sensation from start to finish.

Unfortunately, the tartar sauce from Captain D’s is not available for sale, which led me to recreate it in my own kitchen. I’m going to let you in on my own recipe. It’s been tried and tested and the best part is, it’s quick and easy to whip up.

Tartar sauce has a fascinating history. Its roots trace back to France, where it was initially known as “sauce tartare.” The name was inspired by the Tartars, a nomadic group in Central Asia. These early versions of tartar sauce were simple, combining ingredients like mayonnaise, pickles, and herbs.

Homemade Captain D’s Tartar Sauce

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
2-3 tbsp finely chopped dill pickle
2 tsp finely chopped dill weed
1/4 tsp black pepper
Salt (to taste, if necessary)

Instructions of Preparing Captain D’s Tartar Sauce

1: Mix It Up

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped pickles, and chopped dill weed.
Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

2: Season to Perfection

Season the tartar sauce with black pepper
Taste it and adjust with salt if needed. The amount of salt required may vary based on the brand of mayonnaise you use

3: Chill and Marry

Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate the sauce for at least an hour (or overnight for best results).
This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious blend.

4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your homemade Captain D’s tartar sauce as a dipping sauce on the side.
Alternatively, spread it on your favorite seafood dish

Ingredient Substitutions

Dill Pickle: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, use sweet pickle relish instead of dill pickles.
Dill Weed: Fresh dill is ideal, but dried dill can be substituted (use less quantity).
Lemon Juice: Lime juice works well as an alternative.

Best Combinations with Tartar Sauce

Here are some combinations that I’ve experimented with, and I encourage you to give them a shot as well.

When I’m preparing a seafood platter with fried fish, shrimp, calamari, or crab cakes, I love to serve it with Captain D’s Tartar Sauce. It’s a classic pairing that never fails to impress.
For fish tacos, I find that Captain D’s Tartar Sauce adds a creamy and flavorful touch that enhances every bite. It’s a zesty addition that really brings out the flavors of the fish.
When I’m making a fish sandwich or burger, I generously spread Captain D’s Tartar Sauce on it. It makes for a tasty and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
One of my favorite British-inspired treats is fish and chips. Dipping the crispy fish and chips into Captain D’s Tartar Sauce is a delight for any seafood lover.
Lastly, for a seafood salad, I mix Captain D’s Tartar Sauce with cooked shrimp or crab meat. It creates a creamy and delicious salad that’s ideal for serving on a bed of lettuce or as a sandwich filling.

Serving Times of Captain D’s Tartar Sauce

Serve it fresh, right after preparation, for optimal flavor

Tips For Perfection

Texture Matters: Allow the sauce to rest in the fridge. It will thicken slightly and improve in texture. It will also enhance the flavors and will help to harmonize with your meal.
Freshness Is Key: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best tangy flavor.
Balance Flavors: Adjust the salt carefully; some mayonnaise brands are saltier than others.

How to store the sauce

When it comes to storing Captain D’s Tartar Sauce, I’ve found that the best method is to promptly place it in a tightly sealed container and refrigerate it. This helps maintain the freshness of the sauce. To enjoy its optimal taste and quality, I try to use the sauce within a period of 1 to 2 weeks.

Before each use, I always make it a point to check the sauce for any signs of spoilage. I’ve noticed that refrigerating the sauce immediately after each use helps preserve its delightful flavor and ensures its safety for my next seafood feast.