Marie Rose / Thousand Island Sauce

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This simple yet flavorful sauce is perfect for enhancing the natural taste of prawns, making it a go-to dipping sauce for seafood lovers. The tangy horseradish and cayenne pepper add a zesty kick, while the creamy mayonnaise and ketchup provide a smooth texture. Its quick preparation time makes it a great option for last-minute gatherings or seafood feasts. Whether you’re preparing a seafood platter, an appetizer, or just a casual meal, this sauce brings out the best in prawns.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp fresh horseradish (or 1.5 tsp jarred)
• Dash of Tabasco sauce
• Pinch of cayenne pepper

directions

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and ketchup. Stir them together until they are fully blended.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, Tabasco sauce, and cayenne pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add more horseradish for tanginess or more Tabasco for heat, depending on your desired flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately with prawns or refrigerate for a few hours to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your delicious dipping sauce!

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 1 cup of sauce, which is enough for about 1-2 servings of prawns or a small seafood platter.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Add More Spice: If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add extra Tabasco sauce.
• Herb Infused: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a more complex flavor.
• Garlic Kick: For an added savory note, mix in a little minced garlic or garlic powder.
• Smokier Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika to give the sauce a smoky depth.
• Low-fat Version: Swap the mayonnaise for a low-fat alternative or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Sweet Version: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of ketchup or add a teaspoon of honey.
• Vegan Version: Use a vegan mayo alternative to make this sauce dairy-free.
• Citrusy Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice for a citrusy variation.
• Dill Infused: Add fresh or dried dill for an herbaceous twist on the classic.
• Creamy Alternative: Use sour cream instead of mayonnaise for a different texture and tang.

storage/reheating

This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may improve after a few hours in the fridge. It is not recommended to freeze this sauce, as the texture may change upon thawing.

FAQs

How long will this sauce last in the fridge?

This sauce will last for up to 3 days when stored properly in the fridge.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this sauce often tastes even better after sitting for a few hours as the flavors have time to meld together.

Can I use jarred horseradish instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use jarred horseradish. Just increase the amount to 1.5 teaspoons to match the flavor of fresh horseradish.

Is this sauce spicy?

This sauce has a mild to moderate level of heat, thanks to the cayenne pepper and Tabasco sauce. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less of each ingredient.

Can I use this sauce for other seafood?

Absolutely! This sauce is versatile and works well with shrimp, lobster, crab, and even fish.

Can I make this sauce without Worcestershire sauce?

Yes, you can omit Worcestershire sauce, but it adds a unique umami flavor. If you want to replace it, a dash of soy sauce or a bit of balsamic vinegar can provide a similar depth.

Can I use a different type of mayo?

Yes, you can use any type of mayonnaise you prefer, including low-fat, vegan, or homemade versions.

What can I serve this sauce with besides prawns?

This sauce pairs wonderfully with seafood salads, fish tacos, or even as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.

Is this sauce the same as cocktail sauce?

No, cocktail sauce typically has a stronger focus on tomato and horseradish, while Marie Rose sauce is creamier and milder with ketchup as a base.

Can I add more ketchup to make this sauce sweeter?

Yes, if you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can increase the ketchup to your liking.

Conclusion

Marie Rose sauce is a timeless prawn dipping sauce that brings a creamy, tangy flavor to any seafood dish. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a go-to for seafood platters, appetizers, or a casual meal. With its balanced taste and versatility, this sauce enhances the sweetness of prawns while allowing their natural flavors to shine. Whether served at a party or enjoyed on a quiet night in, this easy-to-make sauce is sure to become a favorite in your seafood recipe collection.

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