Outback Steakhouse Honey Mustard Sauce: The Alice Springs Secret

The first time I tasted Outback Steakhouse’s Honey Mustard, I was in college, and frankly, trying to stretch my meager funds. The Bloomin’ Onion was a splurge, but the accompanying Honey Mustard? That was liquid gold. We’d hoard those little ramekins, dipping everything from fries to chicken fingers into its sweet and tangy embrace. It wasn’t just a condiment; it was a flavor memory, a little taste of affordable indulgence during those ramen-fueled years. Recreating that iconic sauce at home brings back a flood of memories, and it’s surprisingly easy to do.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Total Time: 2 minutes
• Yields: 1 1/4 cups
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• ½ cup prepared salad mustard (yellow mustard)
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup light corn syrup
• ¼ cup mayonnaise

Equipment Needed

• Measuring cups
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork

Instructions

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the prepared salad mustard (yellow mustard), honey, light corn syrup, and mayonnaise.
2. Blend all ingredients together until the mixture is completely smooth and homogenous. Ensure there are no streaks of mustard or mayonnaise remaining.
3. NOTE: The ingredients may tend to separate slightly if left in the refrigerator for an extended period. This is easily remedied by simply giving the sauce a quick stir to re-emulsify it.
4. For optimal flavor, it is recommended to prepare the sauce ahead of time and allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Mustard Selection: Using a good quality yellow mustard is key. While the recipe calls for “prepared salad mustard,” which is just regular yellow mustard, the brand you choose will affect the final flavor. Opt for a brand you enjoy on sandwiches.
• Corn Syrup Substitute: If you’re not a fan of corn syrup, you can try substituting it with agave nectar or maple syrup. However, be aware that this will slightly alter the flavor profile. Agave will add a more neutral sweetness, while maple syrup will impart a distinct maple flavor.
• Spice It Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred level of heat.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a small amount of Dijon mustard, which acts as an emulsifier and thickener. Start with about a teaspoon and add more to taste.
• Making it Vegan: To make a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative. Ensure the brand you choose has a similar consistency to regular mayonnaise for the best results.
• Sweetness Adjustment: Taste the sauce after blending and adjust the sweetness to your liking. If it’s too tangy, add a bit more honey. If it’s too sweet, add a touch more mustard.
• Blending Technique: Using a whisk or fork will work, but for an ultra-smooth sauce, consider using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Just be careful when blending hot liquids.
• Texture Tip: If the sauce seems too thin, try adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar. This will not only thicken the sauce but also add a touch of extra sweetness.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Outback Steakhouse Honey Mustard Sauce is incredibly versatile. It’s a classic pairing for chicken fingers, french fries, and, of course, the Bloomin’ Onion. It also works well as a salad dressing, a sandwich spread, or a dip for vegetables.

• Serving: Serve chilled or at room temperature. A small ramekin of honey mustard alongside a plate of crispy appetizers is always a welcome sight.
• Storage: Store the honey mustard sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 1 week. The ingredients may separate slightly over time, but a quick stir will restore the sauce to its original consistency.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the mayonnaise and cause the sauce to separate upon thawing.
• Reheating: Reheating is not necessary as the sauce is best served cold or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

(Estimated values based on typical ingredients.)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx. 2 tablespoons)	% Daily Value*
Calories	120 kcal	6%
Total Fat	8g	10%
Saturated Fat	1.5g	8%
Cholesterol	5mg	2%
Sodium	150mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	12g	4%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	10g
Protein	0g	0%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Honey Mustard: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.
• Smoked Paprika Honey Mustard: Incorporate ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor.
• Garlic Honey Mustard: Add 1 clove of minced garlic for a savory twist.
• Lemon Honey Mustard: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice for a brighter, more tangy flavor.
• Herbaceous Honey Mustard: Mix in 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives.
• Maple Honey Mustard: Substitute the light corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness.
• Dijon Honey Mustard: Replace half of the yellow mustard with Dijon mustard for a more sophisticated flavor.
• Low-Sugar Honey Mustard: Use a sugar-free honey alternative and a sugar-free corn syrup alternative (if available) to reduce the sugar content.
• Avocado Oil Mayonnaise: Substitute regular mayonnaise with avocado oil mayonnaise for a healthier fat option.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Why does the recipe call for “prepared salad mustard” instead of just saying yellow mustard?
A: “Prepared salad mustard” is simply another term for the common yellow mustard you find in most grocery stores. It’s used to be more descriptive of its intended use as a condiment.

Q: Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?
A: While you can, light corn syrup is preferred for its neutral flavor. Dark corn syrup will impart a molasses-like taste that will significantly alter the flavor profile of the sauce.

Q: The sauce separated in the fridge. Is it still safe to eat?
A: Yes, the sauce is still safe to eat. The separation is a natural occurrence due to the emulsification of the ingredients. Simply stir the sauce well to recombine the ingredients.

Q: How long will the honey mustard sauce last in the refrigerator?
A: When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the honey mustard sauce will last for up to 1 week.

Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time for a party?
A: Absolutely! In fact, making the sauce ahead of time is recommended, as it allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Prepare it a day or two in advance for the best results.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – the secret to recreating that beloved Outback Steakhouse Honey Mustard Sauce in your own kitchen. This simple recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, adding a touch of sweet and tangy goodness to everything it touches. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to create your own signature version. Whip up a batch, grab your favorite dippables, and get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will transport you back to those college days (or wherever your Outback Honey Mustard memories take you). I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback – and maybe even pair it with a homemade Bloomin’ Onion for the full Outback experience!