A Guide to Classic Burger Condiments: Ketchup, Mustard, and Mayo

You know them, you love them, you probably use them daily. Yes, we’re talking about the tried and true trio of condiments—ketchup, mustard, and mayo. They are the ultimate in classic sauce toppings for The Very Best Burger and you can’t go wrong with the classics!

Ever wonder how these go-to goodies came to be? Well, here’s today’s history lesson!

Ketchup

Also known as catsup, this classic of all condiments has its origin, not as a tomato-based product, but rather derived from mushrooms. Yes, mushrooms! By the early 1800s, tomato ketchup gained popularity in the United States, and farmers and food manufacturers alike started bottling it for sale – almost a whole century after the other types were created!

Do you put ketchup on top of your Burgers or dip your Burger in ketchup? Whichever one you choose, adding Ketchup gives it that tangy and sweet flavor that complements the savory taste of your Burger.  Spice it up by adding some hot sauce to your ketchup!

Mustard

“Pardon me, do you have any….?” That’s right, dijon mustard was the first of the prepared mustards (as we know them) to hit the scene all the way back in 13th-century France. The iconic French’s Yellow Mustard deubted at the World’s Fair in 1904, where it was served on the Burger’s best friend, the hot dog.

Have you tried putting mustard on your Burger? While this sauce is not as popular as ketchup – it still adds depth and contrast to your Burger. 

Mayo

Said creamy condiment (made from emulsified egg yolks, btw) also has European roots. In the early 1800s, this sauce was used in French cuisine and saw its debut in Spain.

For your next Burger making extravaganza, get creative and try adding pickle relish, garlic powder, paprika, salt & pepper, cayenne, or horseradish to the classics for some extra zing. Go crazy and mix all three condiments together—it’s the sauce of all Burger sauces!

We have no shortage of Burger sauce ideas (variations on these classics), so check out some of our favorites!

Find Schweid & Sons (like The Prime Burger or The One Percenter) in the fresh meat section of your favorite store. 

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