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This hearty Blooming Onion Sauce brings the beloved Outback Steakhouse experience right to your home kitchen. I developed this recipe after countless attempts to recreate that perfect balance of creamy, tangy and spicy flavors that makes their famous appetizer so irresistible.
I first made this sauce when hosting a football viewing party last fall. After watching everyone repeatedly return to the dipping bowl until it was completely empty, I knew I had finally nailed the recipe. Now my friends specifically request it whenever they visit.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base that gives this sauce its luxurious texture. Use full-fat for best results.
- Ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and appealing color. Choose a high quality brand for best flavor.
- Prepared horseradish sauce: Provides that signature kick. Fresh is best but jarred works perfectly.
- Granulated garlic: Delivers savory depth. Use fresh minced garlic for even more pronounced flavor.
- Smoked paprika: Contributes a subtle smokiness. Spanish paprika offers the most authentic taste.
- Ground cumin: Brings warmth and complexity. Toast whole seeds and grind them yourself for maximum flavor.
- Dried oregano: Adds an herbal note. Mediterranean oregano has a more robust character.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all other flavors. The larger crystals dissolve perfectly in this sauce.
- Black pepper: Provides gentle heat and dimension. Freshly ground creates the most impact.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients:
- Take your mayonnaise, ketchup, and prepared horseradish and add them to a medium mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until completely smooth with no streaks remaining. The sauce should have a light peachy color at this stage. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly.
- Add Spice Blend:
- Sprinkle in the granulated garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the spices are fully distributed throughout the sauce. The mixture will develop a slightly speckled appearance as the herbs and spices incorporate.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Take a small sample to check the flavor balance. This is your opportunity to customize to your preferences. Need more heat? Add more horseradish or black pepper. Want more tanginess? A few drops of lemon juice work wonders. This step ensures your sauce will perfectly match your taste preferences.
- Rest and Develop:
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though several hours is even better. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and intensify, creating a more complex and satisfying sauce.
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The horseradish is truly the secret ingredient that sets this sauce apart. I discovered this on a cooking adventure through Wisconsin, where I visited a horseradish farm and learned how this powerful root transforms from fiery and aggressive when fresh to wonderfully complex when blended into creamy sauces. The balance it creates with the mayonnaise is culinary magic.
Make It Your Own
This sauce welcomes customization based on your personal preferences. For a spicier version, double the horseradish and add a dash of cayenne pepper. If you prefer tangier flavors, incorporate a teaspoon of Dijon mustard and some fresh lemon juice. For a smokier profile, increase the smoked paprika and add a few drops of liquid smoke. The base recipe provides the perfect foundation for experimentation.
Beyond The Blooming Onion
While this sauce was created to complement a crispy blooming onion, its versatility extends far beyond. Try it as a spread on burgers or sandwiches for an instant flavor upgrade. Use it as a dip for sweet potato fries, roasted vegetables, or even grilled chicken tenders. I particularly enjoy it drizzled over fish tacos or as a zesty alternative to plain mayonnaise in potato salad. The creamy texture and bold flavors enhance virtually anything it touches.
Storage Tips
To maintain optimal freshness, always store your blooming onion sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce will continue developing flavor over the first 24 hours. Give it a quick stir before serving if any separation occurs. While technically safe for about a week, the flavors are most vibrant within the first three to four days. Never leave the sauce at room temperature for more than two hours, as the mayonnaise base can spoil quickly in warm conditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. In fact, chilling it for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and improves the texture.
- → What can I serve with this sauce?
This sauce pairs well with fried onion rings, fries, crispy vegetables, chicken tenders, or even as a spread for sandwiches.
- → Can this sauce be made vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute regular mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise to make a vegan-friendly version of this sauce.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, tweak the spice by reducing or increasing the amount of horseradish, paprika, or cumin based on your taste preference.
- → How long does the sauce last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, the sauce will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- → Can I use fresh garlic in place of granulated garlic?
Yes, fresh garlic can be used for a sharper flavor. Mince it finely to blend well with the other ingredients.