Smoky Comeback Sauce is a creamy, tangy dipping sauce with ketchup, chilli sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, lemon, and hot sauce. Serve it chilled with crispy chicken, fries, burgers, sandwiches, or roasted vegetables.
Add the vegan mayonnaise, ketchup, and chilli sauce to a medium mixing bowl.
Add the Dijon mustard and vegan Worcestershire sauce.
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Pour in the lemon juice and hot sauce.
Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Whisk until the sauce is completely smooth and evenly combined.
Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or hot sauce when necessary.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes.
Stir briefly before serving the sauce chilled.
Notes & Wine Advice
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sauce chilled with chicken fingers, fries, onion rings, fried seafood, roasted vegetables, or potato wedges. It also works as a spread for burgers, wraps, and sandwiches. Try it alongside our Chile-Brined Fried Calamari for a creamy contrast to the crisp coating.
Recipe Notes
Refrigerating the sauce for at least 30 minutes allows the dried seasonings to hydrate and the flavours to blend. Use vegan mayonnaise and vegan Worcestershire sauce when preparing the egg-free and vegetarian version. Check the chilli sauce and hot sauce labels when gluten or wheat must be avoided.
Variations
Reduce the cayenne and hot sauce for a milder dip. Add extra cayenne, chilli sauce, or hot sauce for more heat. Finely chopped pickles create a tangier variation, while a teaspoon of maple syrup adds sweetness. For a thinner salad dressing, whisk in one or two teaspoons of water.
Storage
Keep the sauce in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Stir it thoroughly before serving because a small amount of liquid may separate during storage. Do not leave the sauce at room temperature for extended periods.
Wine Advice
A crisp Chardonnay balances the creamy texture and smoky spices. A light-bodied Pinot Noir also works well when the sauce accompanies grilled burgers, chicken, or roasted vegetables.