Tartar sauce is a condiment made of mayonnaise, chopped pickles, and other seasonings. The spelling of "tartar sauce" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced as "tɑr", with an "a" sound like in the word "car". The second syllable is pronounced as "tər" with a neutral vowel sound. The final syllable is pronounced as "sɔs", with an "o" sound like in the word "boss". Together, the word is pronounced as "tɑr-tər-sɔs".
Tartar sauce is a creamy, tangy and savory condiment commonly used as a dipping sauce for seafood dishes. It is typically made from a base of mayonnaise, minced pickles or relish, and various seasonings and flavorings. The sauce gets its name from the Tatars, a Turkic ethnic group from the Eurasian steppes, who are believed to have introduced this sauce to European cuisine.
The primary ingredient in tartar sauce is mayonnaise, which provides a smooth and creamy texture. To enhance the flavor, fine-chopped pickles or relish are added, which contribute a tangy and slightly sweet taste. Other common flavorings include minced onion, garlic, lemon juice, capers, mustard, and sometimes fresh herbs like dill or parsley. The seasoning blend can vary depending on personal preferences or regional variations.
Tartar sauce is most commonly associated with seafood, particularly fish and shellfish. It pairs well with fried or breaded seafood items like fish and chips, shrimp, crab cakes, or calamari. The sauce provides a cool and refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the seafood, making it a popular choice among seafood lovers.
In addition to its traditional use as a seafood accompaniment, tartar sauce can also be enjoyed in sandwiches, wraps, and burgers, adding a zesty kick and creamy texture. Its versatility and appealing taste have made tartar sauce a staple in many households and seafood restaurants worldwide.
The term "tartar sauce" is derived from the French word "sauce tartare". The French word "tartare" refers to the ancient nomadic people of Central Asia known as the Tartars or Tatars. The sauce was originally called "sauce tartare" because it was believed to be the sauce preferred by the Tartars when eating raw meat. Over time, this sauce recipe was adapted and popularized in Western cuisines as a condiment commonly served with seafood, particularly fish.