What is in Submarine Dressing?
Submarine dressing, also known as Thousand Island dressing, is a popular condiment made from a combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and other ingredients. It’s a staple in many households, often used as a dip for sandwiches, vegetables, and crackers. But have you ever wondered what exactly is in submarine dressing? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ingredients and what makes this condiment so unique.
The Classic Recipe
The original recipe for submarine dressing was created in the early 20th century by a woman named Sophia LaLonde, who owned a deli in Buffalo, New York. Her recipe consisted of a mixture of mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, mustard, and spices. Over time, the recipe has been modified and adapted by various manufacturers, but the basic ingredients remain the same.
The Main Ingredients
Here are the main ingredients found in most submarine dressings:
- Mayonnaise: This is the base of the dressing, providing a creamy texture and a rich flavor.
- Ketchup: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dressing.
- Relish: A sweet and sour condiment made from pickled cucumbers, relish adds a tangy flavor and a crunchy texture.
- Mustard: Adds a pungent flavor and helps to balance out the sweetness of the ketchup and relish.
- Spices: A blend of spices, including paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, adds depth and complexity to the dressing.
Other Ingredients
In addition to the main ingredients, submarine dressings may also contain other ingredients, such as:
- Sugar: Some submarine dressings contain added sugar to balance out the flavors.
- Salt: Adds flavor and helps to preserve the dressing.
- Vinegar: Some submarine dressings contain a small amount of vinegar to add a tangy flavor.
- Preservatives: Some manufacturers may add preservatives to extend the shelf life of the dressing.
- Thickeners: Some submarine dressings may contain thickeners, such as xanthan gum or cornstarch, to improve the texture.
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic recipe for submarine dressing remains the same, some manufacturers may offer variations or substitutions to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Some examples include:
- Low-fat or non-fat versions: These dressings may use low-fat or non-fat mayonnaise and other ingredients to reduce the calorie count.
- Organic or natural versions: These dressings may use organic or natural ingredients, such as whole-grain mustard and apple cider vinegar, to appeal to health-conscious consumers.
- Spicy or hot versions: These dressings may add hot peppers or spices to give them a spicy kick.
- Vegan or vegetarian versions: These dressings may use plant-based mayonnaise and other ingredients to appeal to vegans and vegetarians.
Comparison of Popular Brands
Here’s a comparison of the ingredients found in some popular submarine dressing brands:
| Brand | Mayonnaise | Ketchup | Relish | Mustard | Spices | Sugar | Salt | Vinegar | Preservatives | Thickeners |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kraft | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| Heinz | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| Hellmann’s | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| Duke’s | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
As you can see, most submarine dressings contain a similar combination of ingredients, although some may use different brands or types of mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish.
