Condiment | Gluten Free Diet (check specific brands) Low Fat

Cocktail Sauce

N/A (proprietary blend) Allergens: Fish (Worcestershire sauce often contains anchovies), Soy (check specific brands)
Cocktail Sauce

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae (tomatoes), Brassicaceae (horseradish)
  • Primary Cuisine American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Tomatoes, Horseradish, Vinegar, Spices

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A tangy, spicy cold sauce typically made from ketchup or chili sauce, horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce.

Sensory Profile

TasteTangy, Sweet, Spicy, Umami, Pungent
TextureThick, Smooth, Viscous
AromaKetchup, Horseradish, Vinegar, Spices
AcidityMedium-High

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 30 g (2 tbsp)
Calories80 kcal
Total Fat0.5 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1 g
Total Carbohydrate19 g
Dietary Fiber1 g
Total Sugars16 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron0.5 mg
Potassium200 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a fresher, more vibrant cocktail sauce, grate fresh horseradish directly into a ketchup base just before serving, adjusting heat to preference.

Substitutions

Best Match

Ketchup + Fresh Horseradish

1:1 ketchup base, horseradish to taste

Creates a very close flavor and consistency, customizable spice level.

Chili Sauce + Horseradish

1:1 chili sauce base, horseradish to taste

Slightly spicier base than ketchup, for those who prefer more heat.

Tartar Sauce

1:1

Creamier, less spicy. Good for fried seafood, but different flavor profile.

Remoulade Sauce

1:1

Similar seafood pairing, but mayo-based and often contains capers/gherkins.

Buying Guide

Look for ingredient list to check for added sugars and artificial ingredients.

Flavor Pairings

Shrimp oysters crab calamari fried fish seafood cocktails.

Recipes Using Cocktail Sauce

Beer Boiled Shrimp image 160
5 Ingredients Or Less Main Ingredient Seafood 15 Minutes Or Less

Beer Boiled Shrimp

Dive into a world of flavor with this incredibly easy Beer-Boiled Shrimp recipe! Ready in under 15 minutes, this dish boasts juicy, tender shrimp infused with the subtle crispness of beer and a hint of savory spice. Perfect as a quick weeknight meal, appetizer, or for your next get-together.

See Complete Recipe