How do you make tartar sauce that tastes like the kind served at Big Boy?

While Big Boy's tartar sauce recipe is a closely guarded secret, we can get pretty close to replicating its unique flavor profile with some key ingredients and techniques. Here's a recipe inspired by Big Boy's tartar sauce, with tips for getting that classic taste:

Ingredients:

* 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke's or another creamy Southern brand)

* 1/4 cup chopped sweet pickles (the kind with a dill-like tang)

* 1 tablespoon chopped gherkin pickles (for extra crunch)

* 1 tablespoon chopped red onion (or shallot)

* 1 tablespoon chopped capers (optional, adds a salty brininess)

* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (a little tang goes a long way)

* 1 teaspoon minced garlic (freshly minced, if possible)

* 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (or fresh dill, if you have it)

* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

* 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for a subtle sweetness)

* 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)

Instructions:

1. Chop your ingredients: Dice all your pickles, onions, capers (if using) and garlic finely.

2. Combine in a bowl: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped pickles, onion, capers, mustard, garlic, dill, pepper, paprika, and cayenne (if using).

3. Mix well: Stir the ingredients together until thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

4. Chill before serving: Refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Tips for Big Boy-Like Flavor:

* Mayonnaise is key: The right mayonnaise is crucial. Duke's or another creamy Southern brand will give the sauce the right texture and flavor.

* Sweet pickles: The sweet pickles are the star of the show, adding a unique sweetness and tang.

* Gherkins for crunch: The addition of gherkins adds a welcome crunch and another layer of flavor.

* Dijon mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon mustard adds a touch of sharpness that balances out the sweetness.

* Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor profile, so don't skip it.

* Dill: A little bit of dill adds a distinct, almost herbal note that's reminiscent of Big Boy's sauce.

* Chill time: Refrigerating the sauce for a while allows the flavors to meld and gives it a more cohesive taste.

Enjoy!

This recipe is a great starting point, and you can adjust the amounts of each ingredient to your taste. If you want to recreate Big Boy's tartar sauce exactly, you'll need to do some experimenting. But with these tips and ingredients, you can get pretty close!