Russian Dressing Recipe

Russian dressing is a classic condiment that is known for its tangy and creamy flavor. It is commonly used in various sandwiches and salads, particularly in the Reuben sandwich. The dressing originated in the United States and was inspired by the flavors of Russian cuisine.

One popular recipe for Russian dressing begins with making a half-pint of mayonnaise dressing. To make the mayonnaise dressing, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped fine
- 2 to 4 tablespoons of tomato ketchup
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon of finely chopped or grated white onion or shallot

To start, prepare the hard-boiled eggs by placing them in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Once boiled, cool them in cold water and peel off the shells. Chop the eggs into fine pieces and set them aside.

Next, in a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, tomato ketchup, chopped parsley, and finely chopped onion or shallot. Mix these ingredients until well combined. You can adjust the amount of tomato ketchup according to your taste preference, adding more for a tangier flavor or less for a milder taste.

Once mixed, fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs into the mayonnaise mixture. Folding helps to incorporate the ingredients gently, ensuring that the eggs do not break apart. Continue folding until the eggs are evenly distributed throughout the dressing.

This Russian dressing recipe yields enough to serve around ten people. It can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Now, let's explore another variation of dressing that uses olive oil:

Boiled dressing made with olive oil is another tasty option. It is a parve (non-dairy) version that is suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Here is a recipe for boiled dressing with olive oil:

- 3 whole eggs
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- A good pinch of salt
- Pepper
- Mustard
- Cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup of vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of sugar

To make the boiled dressing, start by beating the three whole eggs until they become light and fluffy. Add the olive oil to the beaten eggs, stirring constantly to combine the ingredients. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt, pepper, mustard, and cayenne pepper, adjusting the quantities to your taste preference.

In a separate saucepan, heat the vinegar and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, pour the hot vinegar mixture into the egg and olive oil mixture. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.

Next, place the mixture back on the stove in a double boiler or over hot water in another saucepan. Stir continuously until the dressing thickens to the desired consistency. This process should be done on low heat to prevent curdling or scrambling the eggs.

Once the dressing has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool. It is typically served cold and can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Russian dressing is similar to several other dressings that are popular in different cuisines. One such dressing is Thousand Island dressing, which is known for its creamy texture and sweet and tangy flavor. Similarly to Russian dressing, Thousand Island dressing is made with a combination of mayonnaise and ketchup, but it often includes additional ingredients like pickles, onions, and sweet relish.

Another similar dressing is French dressing, which is a vinaigrette-style dressing commonly found in salads. It typically consists of olive oil, vinegar, and various herbs and spices. While Russian dressing has a creamier texture due to the mayonnaise, French dressing is lighter and more acidic due to its vinaigrette base.

In conclusion, Russian dressing is a versatile condiment that adds flavor to a variety of dishes. Whether you prefer the classic version with mayonnaise or the parve version made with olive oil, both options provide a tangy and creamy element to your meals.