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The first time I served this Pub Sauce at a family gathering, my brother-in-law—who typically drowns everything in ketchup—put down the bottle and asked for the recipe. That’s when I knew I had something special.
Last summer, I set up a DIY burger bar for my daughter’s graduation party, and this sauce was the unexpected star of the show. Guests were spooning extra onto their plates and asking what was in ‘that amazing sauce.’
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Quality Mayonnaise: Use full-fat for the richest texture. Duke’s for tang, Hellmann’s for neutrality.
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar dissolves more easily than dark, creating a smoother sauce.
- Worcestershire Sauce: The umami booster. Lea & Perrins is my go-to.
- Onion and Garlic Powders: Provides aromatic depth without altering texture.
- Paprika: Regular for mild spice; smoked for deeper flavor.
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Detailed Preparation Instructions
- Assembling Ingredients
- Measure ¾ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon paprika.
- Whisking for Smoothness
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk vigorously for 30-45 seconds until smooth and uniform.
- Taste Test
- Adjust flavors: add brown sugar for sweetness, Worcestershire for tang, or more pepper for bite.
- Chilling for Depth
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Pairings: Perfect on burgers, sandwiches, grilled meats, and as a dip for fries.
- Flavor Variations: Add cayenne for heat, fresh dill for seafood, or horseradish for roast beef.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store in small containers to maintain freshness throughout the week.
Chef’s Essential Tips
- Start with room-temperature mayonnaise: Helps dissolve sugar and incorporate flavors evenly.
- Store in glass, not plastic: Glass prevents staining and retains freshness better.
- Fold the mixture after whisking: Ensures even spice distribution.
- Balance flavors smartly: Apple cider vinegar adds brightness; extra brown sugar restores balance if too tangy.
My father, a lifelong ketchup devotee, now requests a jar of this sauce every few weeks. If that’s not the highest praise, I don’t know what is!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does homemade Pub Sauce last in the refrigerator?
- Homemade Pub Sauce will last for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- → Can I use light mayonnaise for this recipe?
- Yes, light mayonnaise works fine, though the sauce might be slightly less creamy than when made with full-fat mayo.
- → What can I serve with Pub Sauce?
- Pub Sauce is delicious on burgers, sandwiches, steak, french fries, chicken tenders, as a dip for vegetables, or even drizzled over roasted potatoes.
- → Can I make Pub Sauce spicy?
- Absolutely! Add a teaspoon of hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some minced jalapeño to give it a kick.
- → Is there a substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
- If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute with equal parts soy sauce mixed with a touch of vinegar and a pinch of sugar.