Tartar sauce is a timeless classic that elevates seafood dishes with its creamy tang and subtle crunch. At Kings Inn Restaurant, their tartar sauce has earned a loyal following thanks to its perfect balance of flavors and fresh ingredients. We’re excited to share this beloved recipe so you can recreate that iconic taste right in your kitchen.
This tartar sauce stands out with its rich texture and zesty kick, making it the ideal companion for everything from crispy fish to golden fries. Whether you’re hosting a seafood feast or just craving a delicious dip, this recipe brings that signature Kings Inn flavor to your table effortlessly. Let’s dive into crafting a sauce that’s as memorable as the restaurant itself.
Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce Recipe
To recreate the Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce with its signature rich texture and zesty kick, we will follow a simple step-by-step process. This recipe uses fresh, carefully balanced ingredients that capture the distinctive flavor everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably homemade or high quality)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles
- 1 tablespoon finely minced onion
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained and chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the Base
In a medium bowl, start by adding 1 cup of mayonnaise. This creamy base is essential for the rich consistency we want.
- Add Crunch and Flavor
Mix in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped dill pickles and 1 tablespoon of minced onion. These bring a perfect tang and mild sharpness to the sauce.
- Enhance with Capers
Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped capers. Capers add a salty, briny note that distinguishes the Kings Inn version.
- Brighten with Lemon Juice
Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to introduce a fresh, zesty zing that cuts through the richness.
- Layer with Mustard and Sugar
Blend 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon sugar into the mixture. The mustard adds subtle depth while sugar balances acidity.
- Season Season Season
Pour in 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, then season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. These elements build complexity.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs
Fold in 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma.
- Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld fully. This chilling step is key to developing that authentic Kings Inn taste.
Ingredient Quantities and Notes
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup | Use high quality for best texture |
| Dill pickles | 2 tablespoons | Finely chopped |
| Onion | 1 tablespoon | Minced |
| Capers | 1 tablespoon | Drained and chopped |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Adds subtle heat |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon | Balances acidity |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds depth |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | To taste |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Fresh parsley | 1 tablespoon | Chopped |
“The secret behind Kings Inn’s tartar sauce lies in its harmonious balance of tangy, salty, and creamy flavors, perfected by fresh, quality ingredients.”
Serving Suggestions
Use this Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce as a dip for fried seafood such as fish, shrimp, or calamari. It also pairs wonderfully with crispy fries or as a sandwich spread to elevate any meal with its signature zest and creaminess.
Ingredients
To recreate the iconic Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce, we use only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and zesty flavors that define this beloved sauce.
Here is everything you will need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup | Use full-fat for best creaminess |
| Dill Pickles | 3 tablespoons | Finely chopped |
| Onion | 2 tablespoons | Finely minced |
| Capers | 1 tablespoon | Drain and chop if large |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon | Squeezed fresh |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 teaspoon | Adds subtle sharpness |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 teaspoon | Balances acidity |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 teaspoon | Enhances umami |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black Pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Fresh Parsley | 1 tablespoon | Finely chopped for brightness |
Pro Tip: For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and chop the dill pickles and parsley finely. This ensures they blend smoothly into the sauce while still providing texture.
We recommend measuring your ingredients precisely to maintain the classic flavor profile that fans of Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce expect. Every element from the creamy mayonnaise to the tangy lemon juice helps us create the perfect sauce to accompany your seafood dishes or fries.
Equipment Needed
To create the Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce with its signature creamy texture and balanced flavor, it’s essential to have the right equipment ready. Using proper tools helps us combine ingredients smoothly and achieve the perfect consistency every time.
Essential Tools
- Mixing Bowl: Choose a medium-sized bowl, ideally glass or stainless steel, for mixing the ingredients thoroughly without affecting flavors.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements guarantee the classic taste fans expect, so use a reliable set for precision.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For finely chopping dill pickles, onion, and fresh parsley, a sharp knife helps create the perfect texture that blends well in the sauce.
- Whisk or Fork: To blend the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and seasonings smoothly, a whisk or a fork works best for achieving a creamy and consistent sauce.
- Spatula: Useful for scraping the sides of the bowl and ensuring all ingredients get well combined.
- Refrigeration Container: A sealed container or glass jar to chill the tartar sauce and let the flavors meld perfectly just like at Kings Inn.
Optional But Helpful
- Food Processor or Mini Chopper: If you want an ultra-smooth texture, pulsing the pickles and parsley briefly can speed up preparation while maintaining freshness.
- Zester or Grater: For adding fresh lemon zest if desired, enhancing the tangy brightness of the sauce.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine all ingredients evenly | Glass or stainless steel preferred |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Measure precise quantities | Accuracy is key to maintain flavor |
| Cutting Board & Knife | Chop pickles, onion, parsley finely | Sharp knife ensures perfect texture |
| Whisk or Fork | Blend sauce components | Ensures creamy and smooth consistency |
| Spatula | Scrape bowl sides, mix | Prevents wastage of sauce |
| Refrigeration Container | Chill sauce for flavor melding | Airtight container for freshness |
| Food Processor (optional) | Achieve smoother texture faster | Use pulsing for best results |
| Zester (optional) | Add fresh lemon zest | Enhances tangy flavor profile |
With these tools in hand, we can confidently proceed to mix the iconic Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce, ensuring every element is perfectly combined to deliver that rich, zesty, and tangy bite we’re aiming for.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to prepare the Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce that perfectly balances creamy and tangy flavors. Each stage ensures we capture the iconic taste.
Prep the Ingredients
- Finely chop dill pickles and fresh parsley for optimal texture.
- Mince the white onion finely to avoid overpowering chunks.
- Juice the fresh lemon, removing seeds for a smooth pour.
- Measure all ingredients precisely to maintain the sauce’s classic profile.
| Ingredient | Prep Detail |
|---|---|
| Dill pickles | Finely chopped |
| Fresh parsley | Finely chopped |
| White onion | Minced |
| Lemon juice | Fresh, seed-free |
Mix the Sauce
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of high-quality mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons of finely chopped dill pickles.
- Add 1 tablespoon minced white onion and 1 tablespoon capers, ensuring even distribution.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard.
- Add ½ teaspoon sugar and ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for subtle sweetness and depth.
- Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
- Whisk all ingredients vigorously with a fork or whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Fold in 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley to brighten flavor and color.
Pro Tip: Use a spatula to scrape the bowl sides ensuring all ingredients are well mixed for consistency.
Adjust Seasoning and Texture
- Taste the sauce immediately after mixing.
- Adjust salt and pepper incrementally for balanced flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or cold water to loosen without diluting flavor.
- For stronger tang, add an extra ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch more lemon juice.
- Once balanced, cover the sauce in an airtight container.
Chill the tartar sauce in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
| Adjustment | Quantity to Add | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Salt | To taste | Enhance overall flavor |
| Black pepper | To taste | Add mild heat |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon increments | Thin texture, increase tang |
| Dijon mustard | ½ teaspoon | Boost sharpness |
| Cold water | 1 teaspoon increments | Thin sauce without flavor loss |
By carefully following these steps we replicate the signature Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce with its rich texture and vibrant zest.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy the Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce, we recommend pairing it with a variety of dishes that highlight its creamy texture and zesty kick. Here are some of our favorite serving ideas:
Classic Seafood Pairings
- Fried Fish Fillets: The tangy and creamy sauce perfectly complements crispy, golden fried fish like cod, haddock, or catfish.
- Fried Shrimp: Dip plump fried shrimp into the tartar sauce for a burst of flavor with each bite.
- Crab Cakes: Spread a generous layer of tartar sauce on top or on the side for a taste that balances the sweetness of crab meat.
Beyond Seafood
- French Fries and Potato Wedges: Use the tartar sauce as an alternative to ketchup or regular mayonnaise for an elevated fry experience.
- Grilled Chicken Sandwiches: Add a dollop on grilled chicken sandwiches or wraps to bring a creamy, tangy layer of flavor.
- Veggie Sticks and Chips: Serve as a dipping sauce for fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, or crispy potato chips.
Sandwich and Burger Enhancer
- Slather the tartar sauce on burgers or sandwiches to add a savory, slightly tangy dimension that enhances the overall taste.
Presentation Tips
- Serve the tartar sauce chilled in small ramekins or bowls for individual dipping.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley or a light sprinkle of lemon zest to echo the sauce’s fresh ingredients visually.
| Dish Type | Suggested Use | Flavor Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Fish | Dip or spread on fillets | Enhances crispiness with creaminess and tang |
| Crab Cakes | Side sauce or topping | Balances sweetness with zesty flavors |
| French Fries | Dip | Adds richness and a zesty kick to fries |
| Grilled Chicken | Spread on sandwich or wrap | Introduces moisture and tanginess |
| Vegetable Sticks | Dip | Freshens and flavors crunchy veggies |
Pro Tip: Chill the Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce for at least one hour before serving. This resting time intensifies its flavors and improves texture, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to maintain the fresh, zesty flavor and creamy texture of Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce. Follow these steps to ensure your sauce stays delicious and safe to enjoy:
- Refrigerate immediately: After preparing the tartar sauce, transfer it to an airtight container. Seal it tightly to prevent air exposure which can degrade freshness. Store the container in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally below 40°F (4°C).
- Use a clean utensil: Always use a clean spoon or spatula when scooping out the sauce. Avoid double-dipping to reduce the risk of contamination and spoilage.
- Shelf life: For optimal flavor, consume the tartar sauce within 5 to 7 days. Beyond this period, the texture and taste may change, and food safety can be compromised.
- Freeze with caution: Although freezing is possible, it can alter the sauce’s creamy consistency. If necessary, freeze in small portions using freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Stir well before use.
Tartar Sauce Storage Guidelines
| Storage Method | Temperature | Shelf Life | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Below 40°F (4°C) | 5 to 7 days | Keep airtight; avoid cross-contamination |
| Freezing | 0°F (-18°C) | Up to 1 month | May cause texture changes; stir after thawing |
“Refrigeration is the key to preserving the vibrant flavors of our Kings Inn Restaurant Tartar Sauce* and keeping your seafood dishes irresistibly fresh.”*
By following these Storage Tips, we ensure every serving of our homemade tartar sauce delivers the classic taste and creamy texture fans expect from the Kings Inn experience.
Conclusion
Making Kings Inn Restaurant’s tartar sauce at home brings that perfect blend of tangy, creamy, and fresh flavors right to our table. With just a few quality ingredients and simple steps, we can recreate a sauce that elevates any seafood dish or snack.
By following the recipe and tips, we ensure every batch has that signature zest and smooth texture. Keeping it chilled and stored properly means we get to enjoy that classic taste again and again.
This tartar sauce isn’t just a condiment—it’s a way to bring a little Kings Inn magic into our own kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Kings Inn Restaurant’s tartar sauce special?
Kings Inn’s tartar sauce is special due to its perfect balance of tangy, salty, and creamy flavors, made from fresh, high-quality ingredients like dill pickles, capers, and lemon juice. Its rich texture and zesty kick make it a favorite seafood accompaniment.
What are the main ingredients in Kings Inn tartar sauce?
The main ingredients include mayonnaise, dill pickles, onion, capers, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley.
How do I prepare the tartar sauce at home?
Finely chop dill pickles and parsley, mince the onion, mix all ingredients with mayonnaise and seasonings in a bowl, then chill for at least one hour to let flavors meld.
Can the tartar sauce be used for dishes other than seafood?
Yes, it pairs well with fries, grilled chicken sandwiches, crab cakes, and even veggie sticks, adding a zesty, creamy touch to various meals.
What equipment do I need to make this tartar sauce?
You need a mixing bowl, measuring spoons and cups, a cutting board, sharp knife, whisk or fork, spatula, and a refrigeration container. Optional: food processor and lemon zester.
How should I store homemade tartar sauce?
Store it immediately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use clean utensils to avoid contamination and consume within 5 to 7 days. Freezing is possible but may affect texture.
Why is it important to chill the tartar sauce before serving?
Chilling allows the flavors to blend and develop fully, enhancing the sauce’s rich texture and vibrant zest for the best taste experience.
Can I adjust the tartar sauce recipe for dietary preferences?
Yes, you can use low-fat mayonnaise or vegan mayo alternatives, and adjust the amount of sugar or mustard to suit your taste while maintaining the sauce’s signature flavor.