Introduction
Are you searching for a versatile and delicious condiment that will elevate your meals? Look no further than remoulade sauce! This creamy and zingy mayo-based sauce is a staple in many cuisines around the world. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a fan of burgers and fries, remoulade sauce is a must-have in your cooking repertoire. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of remoulade sauce, the different variations, and how to use it to enhance your favorite dishes.
What is Remoulade?
Remoulade sauce is a cold and creamy mayonnaise-based sauce that originated in France during the 17th century. Over the years, it has become popular in various European countries, as well as in Cajun and Creole cuisine in the United States. This versatile sauce is typically served with seafood dishes like fried fish and crab cakes. However, it also works wonderfully as a sandwich condiment or a dip for French fries. There are two main types of remoulade: the classic French-style and the spicy Cajun-style.
French-style Remoulade
The French-style remoulade is white in color and features a delicious blend of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, capers, pickles or cornichons, tarragon, vinegar, and sometimes horseradish. It adds a tangy and savory flavor to any dish.
Cajun-style Remoulade
On the other hand, the Cajun-style remoulade is light pink or orange in color and includes Creole mustard, Cajun seasonings, hot sauce, and/or ketchup. This spicier version of remoulade adds a fiery kick to your meals.
Ingredients for Classic Remoulade Sauce
Making a classic remoulade sauce is easy and requires simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Capers: These briny little berries add a signature flavor to the sauce.
- Pickles or Cornichons: Traditionally, cornichons are used in French-style remoulade, but regular pickles work well too.
- Green Onion
- Mayonnaise: Using a high-quality brand of mayonnaise will enhance the overall flavor.
- Dijon Mustard
- White Wine Vinegar: For an elevated flavor, you can substitute tarragon vinegar if you have it.
- Dried Tarragon (optional): Adds a delightful nuance to the sauce.
- Salt and Pepper
Variation: Make it Cajun Style!
If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, you can easily transform the classic remoulade into a Cajun-style sauce. Here are the additions to make:
- Creole Mustard: Swap out Dijon mustard for Creole mustard, which has a spicier and coarser texture.
- Cajun Seasoning: Use a homemade blend or your favorite store-bought Cajun seasoning for an extra kick.
- Hot Sauce: Amp up the heat by adding hot sauce. Tabasco sauce works well, or adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level.
Capers: The Secret Ingredient
Capers are the key to achieving the zippy flavor in a remoulade sauce recipe. If you haven’t used capers before, here’s what you need to know:
- Capers are small berries that come from the caper bush native to the Mediterranean region.
- They have a tangy, briny, and salty taste that adds a savory pop to any dish.
- Capers are commonly used in French, Italian, and Mediterranean recipes.
- Look for them in jars near the olives in your grocery store.
- Drain capers before using, unless specified otherwise in the recipe.
Serving Ideas
Now that you have your remoulade sauce ready, let’s explore different ways to enjoy it:
- Condiment for Burgers: It pairs perfectly with our Best Salmon Burgers, Chickpea Burgers, or even a Portobello Burger.
- Dipping Sauce for Shrimp: Serve it alongside Sauteed Shrimp, Shrimp Skewers, or Cajun Shrimp for a flavor explosion.
- Sauce for Salmon: Drizzle it over Quick Broiled Salmon, Blackened Salmon, or Pan Seared Salmon to take your fish to the next level.
- Sandwich Spread: Use it to elevate the flavors of a Rainbow Vegetable Sandwich.
- Sauce for Fries: Dip your Seasoned Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, Carrot Fries, or Avocado Fries in remoulade for a delightful twist.
- Vegetable Dip: Enjoy it as a tasty dip for fresh vegetables.
How do you like to serve your remoulade sauce? Share your ideas in the comments below!
Conclusion
Remoulade sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that has the power to elevate any dish. Whether you choose the classic French-style or the spicy Cajun-style, this creamy sauce will be a game-changer in your kitchen. Experiment with different serving ideas to discover your favorite combinations. So go ahead, whip up a batch of remoulade sauce and add a touch of deliciousness to your meals!
This article was written exclusively for Family Cuisine.
