There’s nothing quite like the magic of Erik’s Deli Secret Goo that keeps everyone coming back for more. I’ve always been curious about what makes it so irresistible and thought it was time to replicate that deliciousness in my own kitchen.
After some experimentation and a lot of taste testing, I finally cracked the code to this beloved condiment. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Erik’s creations, this copycat recipe will let you bring that special gooey goodness to your dishes anytime you like.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise – Choose a rich, high-quality mayonnaise for creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup – Adds a sweet and tangy base.
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard – Introduces a mild mustard flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish – Provides a sweet crunch.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances depth with a subtle garlic note.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a savory undertone.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper – Season to taste for balanced seasoning.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl is perfect for combining all the ingredients evenly.
- Whisk or Spoon: Use a whisk for a smoother blend or a sturdy spoon to mix thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
- Airtight Container: Store your Secret Goo in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
- Spatula: Ideal for scraping every bit of the sauce from the bowl and transferring it without spills.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Erik’s Deli Secret Goo ahead of time is a great way to enhance your meal prep and ensure that deliciousness is always on hand. Here’s how I manage to have this irresistible sauce ready whenever I need it:
Batch Preparation
- Double the Recipe
I like to make a larger batch of the Secret Goo so I always have some ready. Simply double all the ingredients listed in the recipe to increase the yield without any extra effort.
- Thorough Mixing
Ensure that all ingredients are well combined. Using a whisk helps achieve a smooth and consistent texture, which is crucial for the sauce’s signature taste.
Storage Tips
- Airtight Containers
Transfer the prepared sauce into airtight containers. Mason jars work perfectly as they seal tightly and prevent any unwanted flavors from seeping in.
- Refrigeration
Store the containers in the refrigerator. The Secret Goo can last up to two weeks when kept chilled. This makes it easy to add a burst of flavor to your dishes throughout the week.
- Labeling
I always label my containers with the preparation date. This simple step helps me keep track of freshness and ensures I use the sauce within its optimal timeframe.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Portioning | Divide the sauce into smaller, usable portions. |
| Freezer-Safe Bags | Use freezer-safe bags to prevent freezer burn. |
| Flat Freezing | Lay the bags flat in the freezer for easy storage. |
| Label and Date | Clearly label each bag with the date of freezing. |
- Portioning
If you plan to store the Secret Goo for longer than two weeks, freezing is a fantastic option. Divide the sauce into smaller portions to make thawing easier.
- Freezer-Safe Bags
Place each portion into freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn and preserve the sauce’s flavor.
- Flat Freezing
Lay the bags flat in the freezer. This method not only saves space but also allows the sauce to freeze quickly and evenly.
- Thawing
When you’re ready to use the Secret Goo, simply transfer a frozen portion to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, give it a good stir to restore its creamy texture.
Reheating and Final Touches
- Stir Before Use
After thawing, always stir the sauce well. This ensures that all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the texture is smooth.
- Adjust Seasoning
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes, flavors can mellow slightly during storage, so a little extra salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can bring it back to its full glory.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy Erik’s Deli Secret Goo anytime without the hassle of daily preparation. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving some for future gatherings, this sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to any dish.
Directions
Creating Erik’s Deli Secret Goo is straightforward when you follow these steps. Let’s dive into the process!
Prep
Gather Ingredients:
- 1 cup high-quality mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare Equipment:
- Medium-sized mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon for blending
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight container for storage
- Spatula for transferring the sauce
Cook
No actual cooking is required for this sauce. Instead, focus on blending the ingredients to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- Combine Base Ingredients:
- In the mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, ketchup, and yellow mustard.
- Add Flavor Enhancers:
- Stir in the sweet pickle relish, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Incorporate Freshness:
- Pour in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Season to Taste:
- Add salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Blend Thoroughly:
- Use the whisk or spoon to mix all ingredients until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Assemble
- Transfer the Sauce:
- Use the spatula to move the blended sauce into the airtight container.
- Store Properly:
- Seal the container tightly and label it with the current date.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the sauce for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Enjoy Erik’s Deli Secret Goo with your favorite dishes like sandwiches, grilled meats, or as a dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
I love finding creative ways to incorporate Erik’s Deli Secret Goo into everyday meals. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this versatile sauce:
Classic Sandwich Spread
Spread a generous layer of Secret Goo onto your favorite sandwich bread. Whether you’re making a turkey club or a classic ham and cheese, this sauce adds a creamy and tangy flavor that elevates every bite.
Perfect Grilled Meats
Use Secret Goo as a marinade or a finishing drizzle on grilled chicken steak or pork chops. It enhances the natural flavors of the meat and adds a delightful moisture that keeps everything tender and juicy.
Dipping Sauce for Fries and Veggies
Serve Secret Goo as a dip alongside crispy French fries sweet potato fries or fresh vegetable sticks. Its rich and savory profile pairs perfectly with both salty and crunchy snacks.
Salad Dressing
Transform your salads by using Secret Goo as a creamy dressing. Mix it with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar for a tangy twist that complements fresh greens and vegetables.
Burger Booster
Enhance your homemade burgers by adding a dollop of Secret Goo. It provides an extra layer of flavor and creaminess that makes every bite irresistible.
Baked Potato Topper
Top your baked potatoes with a generous spoonful of Secret Goo. It melts into the fluffy potato adding a luxurious texture and bold taste.
By incorporating Erik’s Deli Secret Goo into these dishes you’ll discover endless possibilities to enjoy this delicious sauce in your everyday meals.
Storage Instructions
Keeping Erik’s Deli Secret Goo fresh is simple when you follow these storage steps:
- Refrigeration
- Transfer: Use a spatula to move the sauce into an airtight container.
- Seal: Ensure the container is tightly closed to maintain freshness.
- Refrigerate: Place the container in the refrigerator.
| Refrigerator Storage |
|---|
| Duration: Up to 2 weeks |
- Freezing for Extended Freshness
- Portioning: Divide the sauce into smaller portions using freezer-safe bags.
- Flat Storage: Lay the bags flat in the freezer for easy stacking and quicker thawing.
- Labeling: Write the date on each bag to keep track of storage time.
| Freezer Storage |
|---|
| Duration: Up to 3 months |
- Thawing and Serving
- Thawing: Transfer the desired portion from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before use.
- Stirring: Once thawed, stir the sauce well to regain its creamy texture.
- Adjusting: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.
By following these storage guidelines, you’ll ensure that your homemade Erik’s Deli Secret Goo remains delicious and ready to enhance your favorite dishes whenever you need it.
Conclusion
I’m thrilled you got to dive into my copycat recipe for Erik’s Deli Secret Goo. Recreating this amazing sauce right in my kitchen has been a blast and I hope it brings as much joy to your meals as it does to mine.
Feel free to get creative with how you use it. Whether it’s on a sandwich, as a dip, or even experimenting in new dishes the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to suit your taste.
I’d love to hear how your version turns out or any unique ways you incorporate it into your favorite meals. Happy cooking and enjoy every flavorful bite!
