Spike Mendelsohn’s Good Stuff Sauce: A Culinary Revelation

I remember the first time I tasted a truly exceptional burger sauce. It wasn’t at some fancy restaurant, but at a casual backyard barbecue hosted by a friend who was obsessed with replicating the flavors of Top Chef Spike Mendelsohn’s famous Good Stuff Eatery. He wouldn’t reveal the secret ingredient, just handed me a burger slathered in a vibrant pink sauce that was tangy, sweet, and had a subtle, irresistible kick. One bite, and I was hooked. I spent the rest of the evening trying to dissect the flavors and begging for the recipe, ultimately failing. Luckily, the internet held the answer, and I’ve been making (and perfecting!) my own version of Good Stuff Sauce ever since.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Servings: 32
• Yield: 2 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 cups homemade basic mayonnaise (See my notes below for a great homemade mayo recipe)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or less, if using regular salt)

Ingredient Notes:

• Mayonnaise: While store-bought mayonnaise will work in a pinch, the flavor of this sauce truly shines when made with homemade mayonnaise. The richness and freshness make a noticeable difference.
• Salt: Be cautious with the salt! Sea salt can vary in intensity, so start with slightly less and add more to taste. Regular table salt is also more potent than sea salt, so reduce the amount accordingly.
• Molasses: If you’re out of molasses, a dark brown sugar syrup can be substituted. Simmer equal parts dark brown sugar and water until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture has slightly thickened. Let it cool before using.

Equipment Needed

• Food processor or blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Airtight container for storage

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, add the mayonnaise, ketchup, molasses, rice vinegar, and sea salt.
2. Puree: Process until the mixture is perfectly smooth and uniformly pink.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a touch more salt, vinegar, or molasses to balance the flavors to your preference.
4. Storage: Transfer the Good Stuff Sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Homemade Mayonnaise Matters: Don’t underestimate the power of using homemade mayonnaise. It will elevate this sauce to a whole new level. Here’s a quick recipe: In a blender or food processor, combine 1 large egg yolk, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or white wine vinegar), and a pinch of salt. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in about 1 cup of neutral oil (like canola or grapeseed) until the mayonnaise emulsifies and thickens.
• Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the blender. A little goes a long way!
• Sweetness Control: The molasses adds a distinct sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste.
• Get Ahead: This sauce is best made a day or two in advance to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Emulsification Issues: If your blender or food processor has trouble emulsifying the ingredients, try adding a tablespoon of water to help it come together.
• Flavor Boost: A tiny pinch of smoked paprika can add a wonderful smoky depth to the sauce.
• Adjust the Consistency: If you want a thinner sauce, add a teaspoon of water or rice vinegar at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
• Fresh Herbs: For a fresh twist, try adding a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley, chives, or dill to the sauce after blending.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Good Stuff Sauce is incredibly versatile and elevates so many dishes. Of course, it’s fantastic on burgers, but don’t stop there! Use it as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or chicken nuggets. Spread it on sandwiches, wraps, or grilled vegetables. It’s also a delicious topping for tacos, quesadillas, or even a dollop on top of a baked potato.

Store the Good Stuff Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 1 week, but it’s so good, it probably won’t last that long! Due to the mayonnaise base, it’s not recommended to freeze this sauce.
Room temperature is not advised for more than 2 hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	61.8 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	44 kcal	–
Total Fat	4.9 g	7%
Saturated Fat	0.7 g	3%
Cholesterol	3.8 mg	1%
Sodium	188 mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	4.7 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	1.9 g	–
Protein	0.1 g	0%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative. Ensure all other ingredients are also vegan-friendly.
• Spicy Chipotle: Add 1-2 teaspoons of adobo sauce from a can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Garlic Lover’s: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the food processor for a garlicky twist.
• Herby Goodness: Blend in a handful of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Honey Sweetened: Replace the molasses with an equal amount of honey for a slightly different sweetness profile.
• Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon for a bright, citrusy note.
• Horseradish Heat: Stir in a teaspoon of prepared horseradish for a pungent, spicy flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use store-bought mayonnaise instead of homemade?

A: Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought mayonnaise. However, homemade mayonnaise will significantly enhance the flavor and richness of the sauce.

Q: How long does Good Stuff Sauce last in the refrigerator?

A: When stored properly in an airtight container, Good Stuff Sauce will last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze this sauce?

A: Freezing is not recommended due to the mayonnaise base, which can separate and become grainy when thawed.

Q: What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

A: You can substitute rice vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Q: Can I make this sauce spicier?

A: Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a finely chopped jalapeño to the blender for a spicy kick.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the secret to Good Stuff Sauce, I encourage you to experiment and make it your own. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add your personal touch, I guarantee this sauce will become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to slather it on everything – burgers, fries, sandwiches, and more! Share your creations and variations with friends and family, and most importantly, enjoy the deliciousness!