How To Instantly Elevate Your Fish Fry With Worcestershire Sauce

Fish is, undeniably, the most important element of a fish fry. But that doesn't mean that the fixings served alongside filets should be forgotten. In fact, the sauces and sides that accompany fried fish play a vital role in the overall success of the meal. So, rather than risk letting key components like tartar sauce fall by the wayside, give them a well-merited revamp with a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Tartar sauce boasts a bright flavor coupled with a creamy consistency that complements crispy fried fish wonderfully. That said, because not all tartar sauces are the same, the condiment may require a helping hand from time to time. Regardless of whether you opt for store-bought sauce or prefer homemade tartar sauce, whisking in Worcestershire sauce can instantly transform a tartar sauce that's flat and lackluster by imparting layers of funky and salt-kissed flavor. In addition to boosting complexity, Worcestershire works to balance the sauce as its acidity offsets the tartar sauce's ultra decadent profile.

Since Worcestershire sauce is such a concentrated condiment, a little goes a long way. Typically, we advise using a teaspoon of Worcestershire for every cup of tartar sauce. That said, feel free to adjust the amount based on preference — just be sure to select a quality bottle for better flavors and textures. Of course, to really showcase the delicious versatility of Worcestershire sauce, you could also introduce the condiment to a fish fry in other ways. 

Starting with the star of a fish fry — the filets — Worcestershire sauce can easily be mixed into a buttermilk marinade to subtly heighten flavor, all while improving texture. Similarly, a spoonful of the savory condiment could also be incorporated into a tempura or beer-based batter. Should you opt to dredge filets of fish in cornmeal or breadcrumbs, a few shakes of the funky fermented sauce can even be introduced into the egg wash beforehand to effectively skyrocket flavor.

Given its stellar ability to pair well with most ingredients, it should come as no surprise that Worcestershire sauce can be added to a bunch of different side dishes. So long as you use the condiment sparingly, Worcestershire sauce will give anything from herbaceous smashed peas to tangy coleslaw or buttery corn an earthy richness, much like it can help tie flavors together in decadent sides such as hushpuppies, creamy macaroni salad, or baked beans. However, the applications for Worcestershire sauce don't end there.

Along with upgrading tartar sauce, Worcestershire proves to be a powerhouse when added to any saucy accompaniment. Simply stir a few dashes into gravy, curry, or malt vinegar to make the perfect companion for dipping crispy fries and slathering onto filets. Ultimately, no matter whether you work Worcestershire into sauces (tartar and otherwise) or any other element of a fish fry, know that the ingredient is guaranteed to be a gustatory game-changer.