The origins of remoulade sauce can be traced back to France in the mid-18th century. It was originally created as a cold sauce to accompany meat dishes, made with mayonnaise, mustard, herbs, and spices. Over the years, it has evolved and been adapted into different versions, with the most popular being from the French regions of Normandy and Marseille.
The sauce made its way to Louisiana through French immigrants, who brought their love for food and cooking to the southern state. Here, it started to evolve even more, with the addition of local ingredients such as horseradish, chives, and Worcestershire sauce. In Louisiana, remoulade sauce is often associated with Cajun and Creole cuisine, where it is commonly used as a dipping sauce for seafood, as well as in dishes like po’boys and crab cakes.
So why should you make remoulade sauce from scratch instead of buying it from the store? Here are a few reasons:
1. Customizable ingredients: When making remoulade sauce at home, you have the freedom to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences. You can make it spicier by adding more horseradish or more tangy by increasing the amount of lemon juice. You can also control the quality of the ingredients used, opting for organic or locally sourced ingredients.
2. Freshness and flavor: Homemade remoulade sauce is undeniably fresher and more flavorful compared to store-bought versions. By making it yourself, you can use fresh herbs and spices, making the taste more vibrant and authentic.
3. Versatility: While remoulade sauce is often associated with seafood, it can actually be used in a variety of dishes. Think of it as a flavorful spread for sandwiches, a topping for burgers, or even a dip for crudité platters. Making it at home means you always have a versatile and delicious sauce on hand for any dish.
4. Cost-effective: Making your own remoulade sauce can save you money in the long run. Most store-bought sauces are quite pricey, and you often end up with a large jar that can go to waste if you don’t use it all. By making it at home, you can control the portion size and only make as much as you need.
Homemade Remoulade Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Finally chopped dill pickles
- 1 tbsp Chopped capers
- 1-2 Anchovies finely chopped and with the side of your knife made into a paste
- 1-2 tsp Horseradish
- 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp chopped chives
- 1 tsp chopped tarragon It's okay if you can't find this. herb and have to leave it out.
- 1 tsp Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp White wine vinegar
- 3-4 drop Drop's hot sauce
- 1/4 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
Creole. – Cajun Version
- 1-2 tsp Creole seasoning
- You can use this to replace the chives and tarragon. And add more to your liking.
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well.
- If you have the time let the sauce sit an hour or 2 it will develop even more flavor. You can even make it the day before.