Where to Buy St. Elmo’s Cocktail Sauce?
St. Elmo Steak House cocktail sauce can be purchased directly from the St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis, IN, through their online store, or from various online retailers like Amazon and Goldbelly. Select specialty stores might also stock it, but availability varies.
The Legendary Bite: Understanding St. Elmo’s Cocktail Sauce
St. Elmo Steak House, an Indianapolis institution, is renowned for its fiery cocktail sauce, not just its prime steaks. The sauce’s intense horseradish kick has garnered a cult following, making it a must-try for seafood lovers and spice enthusiasts alike. But where can you get your hands on this legendary condiment if you’re not in Indianapolis? This article delves into all the possible avenues for acquiring St. Elmo’s Cocktail Sauce.
A Brief History of St. Elmo’s Steak House
Founded in 1902, St. Elmo Steak House is a landmark of culinary excellence. While their steaks are undoubtedly a draw, the cocktail sauce has arguably become even more famous, a defining characteristic of the St. Elmo experience. Its simple yet potent combination of ingredients sets it apart from milder, sweeter cocktail sauces. The restaurant has guarded its secret recipe carefully, adding to its mystique.
Why St. Elmo’s Cocktail Sauce is so Popular
The popularity stems from several factors:
- Intense Flavor: The horseradish punch delivers a unique and memorable eating experience.
- Tradition: Its association with a historic and respected steakhouse lends an air of prestige.
- Simplicity: Despite the complex flavor profile, the ingredients are relatively simple, creating a sense of authenticity.
- Word-of-Mouth: The shared experience of the sauce’s intensity has fueled its reputation and demand.
Where to Find It: Your Purchasing Options
Here’s a breakdown of the different ways you can acquire St. Elmo’s Cocktail Sauce:
- St. Elmo Steak House (Indianapolis): The original source, and the most authentic experience. You can purchase it directly at the restaurant.
- St. Elmo’s Online Store: Offers convenient online ordering and shipping within the U.S. Often the best option to guarantee authenticity.
- Amazon: A reliable online retailer with a wide selection of St. Elmo’s products, including the cocktail sauce.
- Goldbelly: Specializes in shipping iconic foods from restaurants across the country. A good choice for gifting or experiencing a piece of St. Elmo’s without traveling.
- Specialty Food Stores: Some gourmet or specialty food stores may carry St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce, but availability is limited and can vary widely by location.
Considerations Before You Buy
Before making your purchase, consider the following:
- Price: Prices can vary between retailers, so compare before buying. Shipping costs can significantly impact the final price.
- Authenticity: Purchase from reputable sources to ensure you’re getting genuine St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce.
- Shipping Restrictions: Check for any shipping restrictions to your location, especially for online retailers.
- Quantity: Decide how much you need. The sauce is potent, so a little goes a long way. Consider buying a smaller jar if you’re trying it for the first time.
Comparison of Retailers
| Retailer | Advantages | Disadvantages | Authenticity |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Elmo Steak House | Guaranteed authenticity, part of the full experience | Requires travel to Indianapolis or online ordering | Guaranteed |
| St. Elmo’s Online Store | Guaranteed authenticity, convenient online ordering | Shipping costs | Guaranteed |
| Amazon | Wide availability, often competitive pricing | Potential for counterfeit products, variable seller ratings | Check Seller Rating |
| Goldbelly | Specializes in shipping iconic foods, good for gifting | Higher prices, shipping costs | Generally High |
| Specialty Food Stores | Immediate availability (if stocked) | Limited availability, potential for expired product | Variable |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce really that spicy?
Yes, it is! St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce is known for its intense horseradish flavor. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a very small amount. Many people mix it with ketchup or mayonnaise to tone down the heat.
What is the shelf life of St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce?
Unopened, St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce typically has a shelf life of around 12-18 months. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a few weeks for the best quality and flavor. Always check the expiration date on the jar.
Can I make my own St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce at home?
While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, many recipes online attempt to replicate the flavor. However, replicating the authentic taste is challenging. It involves a precise balance of horseradish, ketchup, and other ingredients.
Does St. Elmo’s offer different sizes of their cocktail sauce?
Yes, St. Elmo’s typically offers its cocktail sauce in various jar sizes, catering to different needs. Check the online store or ask at the restaurant for current size options.
Is St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce gluten-free?
While the ingredients themselves are generally gluten-free, it’s always best to check the product label for any potential allergens or cross-contamination warnings. If you have a severe gluten allergy, contacting St. Elmo’s directly is recommended.
Can St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce be frozen?
Freezing is generally not recommended as it can affect the texture and flavor of the sauce. The horseradish may separate, resulting in a less desirable consistency.
What’s the best way to serve St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce?
Traditionally, it’s served with shrimp cocktail, but it also pairs well with oysters, crab legs, and other seafood. Some people even enjoy it as a condiment for steak or burgers. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
How do I store St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce properly?
Always refrigerate the sauce after opening. Ensure the jar is tightly sealed to prevent the horseradish from losing its potency and to maintain freshness.
Does St. Elmo’s ship internationally?
Generally, St. Elmo’s does not ship internationally directly from their online store. However, you might be able to find it through third-party shipping services or international retailers, but availability will vary greatly.
Are there any substitutes for St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce?
While there are many cocktail sauces available, none truly capture the unique intensity of St. Elmo’s. Look for sauces with a high horseradish content if you’re seeking a similar flavor profile.
Is there a vegetarian version of St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce?
Yes, St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce is inherently vegetarian. There are no meat products used in the recipe.
How do I know if the St. Elmo’s cocktail sauce I’m buying is authentic?
Purchase from reputable sources like St. Elmo’s directly, their online store, or verified sellers on Amazon and Goldbelly. Be wary of unusually low prices or sellers with poor reviews, as these could indicate counterfeit products. Always check the packaging for the official St. Elmo’s branding.