St Elmo’s Steakhouse in Indianapolis is famous not just for its steaks but also for its iconic cocktail sauce. This tangy, spicy sauce has become a staple for seafood lovers craving that perfect blend of heat and zest. We’re excited to share a recipe that brings this classic sauce right into your kitchen.
Whether you’re serving shrimp, oysters, or even a juicy steak, this cocktail sauce adds a bold kick that elevates any dish. It’s simple to make and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand. Let’s dive into crafting this legendary sauce that’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
To recreate the St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce with its iconic tang and spice, we use straightforward ingredients that pack a punch. Each component works harmoniously to deliver that bold flavor profile seafood lovers crave. Here are the essentials we need:
- 2/3 cup ketchup – the rich tomato base that provides sweetness and body
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish – for the signature sharp heat that defines this sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – adds bright acidity to balance the richness
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – deepens the umami complexity
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce – intensifies the kick, adjustable to your heat preference
- 1/4 teaspoon celery salt – imparts subtle savory notes and a hint of earthiness
- Fresh cracked black pepper to taste – enhances aroma and adds mild heat
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ketchup | 2/3 cup | Base, sweetness |
| Prepared horseradish | 2 tablespoons | Sharp heat, signature flavor |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Acidity, brightness |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon | Umami depth |
| Hot sauce | 1/2 teaspoon | Spicy kick |
| Celery salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Savory undertone |
| Fresh cracked black pepper | To taste | Aroma, mild heat |
Each ingredient contributes critical layers of taste when combined. We recommend using freshly squeezed lemon juice and high-quality horseradish for the most authentic experience. This precise balance is what makes the St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce a legendary accompaniment to shrimp, oysters, and even steak.
Equipment Needed
To craft the authentic St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce, having the right equipment ensures a smooth and efficient process. Here’s what we recommend:
- Mixing Bowl: Use a medium-sized bowl to combine all ingredients. Glass or stainless steel work best for easy cleaning and no flavor transfer.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use standard measuring spoons for teaspoons and tablespoons, and a measuring cup for the ketchup.
- Whisk or Fork: A small whisk or fork helps us blend the sauce into a perfectly smooth and consistent consistency.
- Juicer: A handheld citrus juicer or reamer will help extract fresh lemon juice quickly and cleanly, enhancing the sauce’s bright acidity.
- Cutting Board and Knife: Needed for slicing fresh lemons if you plan to juice them yourself.
- Small Grater or Microplane (optional): Useful if we prefer to freshly grate horseradish instead of using prepared horseradish for bolder flavor.
| Equipment Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine ingredients evenly |
| Measuring Spoons & Cups | Ensure precise ingredient quantities |
| Whisk or Fork | Achieve smooth sauce texture |
| Citrus Juicer/Reamer | Extract fresh lemon juice efficiently |
| Cutting Board & Knife | Prepare lemons for juicing |
| Grater or Microplane | Freshly grate horseradish for enhanced heat |
Having these tools ready allows us to focus on blending the flavors perfectly, capturing the bold and tangy essence that makes the St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce iconic.
Prep Work
Before we combine the ingredients, proper prep work is crucial to ensure our St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce achieves that perfect bold and tangy flavor. Let’s start by getting everything measured, fresh, and ready for mixing.
Preparing the Base Ingredients
First up, we focus on the core components of our sauce. Precise measurement and freshness make all the difference.
- Ketchup: Measure out 2/3 cup of a high-quality ketchup. This provides the sweet and tangy base for the sauce.
- Prepared Horseradish: Use 2 tablespoons of freshly grated or good-quality prepared horseradish. This adds the signature punch of heat.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice using a citrus juicer. This brightens the sauce with lively acidity.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Pour in 1 teaspoon, lending a rich umami depth.
- Hot Sauce: Add 1/2 teaspoon for adjustable spice — feel free to tweak based on your heat preference.
- Celery Salt: Measure 1/4 teaspoon, introducing a subtle savory note.
- Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: Add to taste for a final layer of complexity.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ketchup | 2/3 cup | Sweetness and tang |
| Prepared Horseradish | 2 tablespoons | Sharp heat |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon | Bright acidity |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 teaspoon | Umami richness |
| Hot Sauce | 1/2 teaspoon | Spicy kick |
| Celery Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Savory undertones |
| Fresh Cracked Black Pepper | To taste | Final flavor enhancement |
Pro Tip: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice and fresh horseradish or high-quality prepared horseradish for an authentic St Elmo’s taste.
Chilling the Sauce
After thoroughly whisking all ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth and evenly combined, transfer the sauce to a covered container.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and intensify.
- The chilling step also thickens the sauce, enhancing its texture and making it perfect for dipping.
“Patience in chilling unlocks the true depth of St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce,” a key to replicating that legendary taste we all love.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create the bold and tangy St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce that perfectly complements seafood and steak. Precise mixing and seasoning adjustments ensure an authentic flavor.
Mixing the Sauce
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the following measured ingredients:
- 2/3 cup of ketchup
- 2 tablespoons of prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of hot sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon of celery salt
- Use a whisk or fork to blend all the ingredients vigorously. This will ensure the horseradish and spices are evenly distributed, creating the signature robust and zesty flavor.
- Add fresh cracked black pepper to taste — start with 1/4 teaspoon and increase as desired.
- Transfer the sauce to a container and chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to thicken, vital for replicating the authentic St Elmo’s taste.
Adjusting Seasonings
Once chilled, taste the sauce and adjust seasonings to suit your palate:
| Ingredient | Adjustment Tip |
|---|---|
| Horseradish | Add more for sharper heat and pungency |
| Hot sauce | Increase for extra kick |
| Lemon juice | Add a little more for brighter acidity |
| Celery salt | Adjust slightly for balanced savory notes |
| Black pepper | Grind fresh for a peppery punch |
“The key to our St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce lies in balancing bold heat with fresh acidity.”
Make seasoning adjustments sparingly, whisk well after each change, and re-chill 10-15 minutes before serving for the best flavor integration.
Serving Suggestions
Our St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce is incredibly versatile. Its bold, tangy, and spicy profile elevates a variety of dishes beyond classic seafood pairings. Here are some carefully selected ways to serve and enhance your meals with this iconic sauce.
Classic Seafood Pairings
- Serve chilled alongside shrimp cocktail. The sauce’s horseradish heat cuts through the sweet brininess, creating a perfect balance.
- Use as a dip for plump oysters on the half shell to add a zesty punch.
- Pair with crab legs or lobster tails. The acidity from fresh lemon juice in the sauce enhances the natural sweetness of shellfish.
Beyond Seafood: Unconventional Pairings
- Add a dollop beside a juicy grilled ribeye steak for an extra layer of bold flavor reminiscent of St Elmo’s signature dining experience.
- Use as a zesty condiment for beef sliders or burgers, imparting a spicy kick that complements savory beef patties.
- Drizzle over crispy fried calamari or calamari rings to brighten and contrast the crunchy texture.
Serving Tips for Optimal Enjoyment
| Serving Element | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Sauce Temperature | Serve chilled to maintain thick texture and bold taste |
| Portion Size | Offer as a generous side, approximately 2 tablespoons per person |
| Presentation | Garnish with a lemon wedge or fresh parsley sprig for visual appeal |
| Customization | Provide extra hot sauce or horseradish on the side for guests who want more heat |
“Chilling the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving is key to melding the flavors and ensuring that bold St Elmo’s taste shines through every bite.”
Creative Serving Ideas
- Use the sauce as a marinade base for seafood before grilling, allowing its flavors to infuse.
- Mix with mayonnaise or sour cream to create a creamy dip variation, ideal for vegetable crudités or potato wedges.
- Incorporate a spoonful into your Bloody Mary cocktail mix for a spicy twist inspired by the steakhouse classics.
Our St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce complements and enhances your dishes with a distinctive punch of flavor every time.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to maintain the bold flavor and fresh acidity of the St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce. Follow these steps for optimal preservation:
- Use an airtight container: Transfer the sauce into a clean glass jar or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. This prevents exposure to air that can degrade the flavor.
- Refrigerate immediately: Store the sauce in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). Chilling slows bacterial growth and preserves the sharp heat and umami depth.
- Consume within 7 days: For best taste and safety, use the sauce within one week. Beyond this, the horseradish flavor may weaken and the sauce may separate.
- Avoid cross-contamination: Use a clean spoon each time to scoop out the sauce. This maintains freshness and prevents spoilage.
- Re-whisk before serving: After storage, the sauce may settle or separate slightly. Give it a quick stir or whisk to reincorporate the ingredients and restore the signature texture.
| Storage Step | Details | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Container | Airtight glass or plastic jar | Ensures flavor retention |
| Temperature | Refrigerate at or below 40°F (4°C) | Prevents bacterial growth |
| Shelf Life | Up to 7 days | Use a date label |
| Handling | Use clean utensils only | Avoids contamination |
| Preparation Before Use | Re-whisk or stir gently | Restores texture and flavor |
Remember, keeping the St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce cold and contained will preserve its legendary tangy and spicy profile, ready to enhance your meals whenever desired.
Conclusion
Crafting St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce at home is a rewarding way to bring bold flavors to your table. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful preparation, we can recreate that signature tangy heat that elevates seafood and steak alike.
By following the tips on mixing, chilling, and storing, the sauce stays fresh and vibrant, ready to enhance any meal. Whether you’re serving it with shrimp, oysters, or even as a unique dip, this sauce adds a memorable kick that guests will love.
Let’s embrace the versatility and make this iconic sauce a staple in our kitchens, turning everyday dishes into something truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes St Elmo’s Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce unique?
St Elmo’s sauce is known for its bold, tangy, and spicy flavor, combining horseradish heat with fresh lemon acidity and a touch of umami from Worcestershire sauce. This distinctive blend sets it apart from typical cocktail sauces.
What ingredients are needed to make St Elmo’s Cocktail Sauce?
You need ketchup, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
How do I prepare the St Elmo’s Cocktail Sauce?
Mix all ingredients in a bowl, whisk thoroughly, then chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and improve texture.
Can I use this sauce for dishes other than seafood?
Yes! It pairs well with grilled ribeye, beef sliders, fried calamari, and can be used as a marinade or mixed with mayo for a creamy dip.
How should I store the sauce?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator, consume within seven days, and re-whisk before serving for best flavor and texture.
Is fresh horseradish necessary in the recipe?
Freshly grated horseradish is recommended for the most authentic, sharp heat, but prepared horseradish can be used if fresh isn’t available.
Can the sauce be made ahead of time?
Yes, making it ahead allows flavors to develop fully. Just keep it chilled and re-whisk before serving.
How spicy is St Elmo’s Cocktail Sauce?
It has a moderate heat level balanced with acidity, but adding or reducing hot sauce can adjust spiciness to your taste.