Basic French
A tangy, sweet, and savory French-style sauce with mustard, vinegar, and catsup, perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a versatile condiment for various dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large cruet or bottle, combine minced onion, salt, celery seed, mustard seed, dry mustard, and sugar, then shake well.
- Add catsup and vinegar, then shake vigorously.
- Add oil and shake vigorously again.
- Chill before using.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. You can substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dressing is versatile and can be used in salads or as a marinade, similar to the Ellie Mcdonald Marinade.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dressing over a fresh garden salad or use it as a dip for raw vegetables. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great accompaniment for dishes like Pollo Con Arroz. For a twist, drizzle it over roasted vegetables or use it as a marinade for tofu or tempeh for vegan recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to shake well before each use, as ingredients may separate over time. If it thickens, you can thin it out with a little water or additional vinegar. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic French contains roughly 102 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1881mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh herbs in this recipe?
Yes, adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the flavor of the dressing. Just chop them finely and mix them in with the other ingredients. Fresh herbs should be added just before serving for the best flavor.
What kind of oil should I use?
You can use any neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, for this recipe. Olive oil is also a great choice if you prefer a more robust flavor. Just keep in mind that the type of oil can affect the overall taste of your dressing.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dressing is gluten-free as long as you ensure that the catsup you use is specifically labeled as gluten-free. Most brands are, but it's always good to check the label to avoid any gluten-containing additives.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).