Russian dressing is a classic condiment with a rich history and a unique flavor profile. It’s a creamy and tangy dressing that has been a staple in American cuisine for decades, despite its name suggesting a Russian origin. The dressing’s history dates back to the early 20th century, and its exact origins are a subject of debate. Some theories suggest that it was created by Russian immigrants in the United States, while others believe it was simply a marketing ploy to make it sound exotic.
Russian dressing typically features a base of mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish, which gives it a creamy and slightly spicy flavor. It often includes additional ingredients like pickles, onions, and spices, which vary from recipe to recipe. This combination of ingredients results in a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors, making it a versatile dressing for salads and sandwiches.
Despite its name, Russian dressing is especially popular in the United States, where it is a favored accompaniment for dishes like the Reuben sandwich and as a dressing for salads, particularly the classic Russian dressing salad. It has a nostalgic appeal, evoking memories of diners and delis. To serve Russian dressing, you can drizzle it over a salad of mixed greens, use it as a dipping sauce for chicken tenders, or spread it generously on a hearty sandwich. Its creamy texture and bold flavor make it a beloved addition to a wide range of dishes in American cuisine.
Russian dressing
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp horseradish
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and white vinegar.
- Add the paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings if needed. You can add more horseradish for extra heat or adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
- Once the dressing is well mixed and the flavors are balanced to your liking, cover it and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
