Smoked Tuna Dip
Smoked Tuna Dip Recipe–A Great Copycat Version
I was reminiscing about the first time I ever tasted Smoked Tuna Dip. I have to admit that I was NOT real excited about trying this appetizer.
We were in Destin, Florida, dining with friends at Dewey Destin’s Harborside Restaurant when I tasted Smoked Tuna Dip for the first time. It was October and the tail end of Fall Break for many of the schools in Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia. That meant the restaurant was super crowded. It was the first time any of us had eaten at Dewey’s, but we quickly found out that waiting at Dewey’s is really a pleasure.
The restaurant’s courtyard or harborside bar are both places to kick back with a favorite beverage and appetizer. And when my friend ordered Smoked Tuna Dip because she saw a group enjoying a batch, we were happy to wait for our table and enjoy our dip.
Keeping an Open Mind
Prior to eating Smoked Tuna Dip, I believed tuna belonged on sandwich, mixed with mayo and maybe a little onion and smidge of sweet dill relish. So eating this dip was REALLY stepping out for me. And being that everyone in my party couldn’t say enough good about it, I tried it. I put a little on a saltine and there was no turning back for me.
The dip was full of smokey deliciousness served on saltine crackers. I never would have thought to serve anything other than chili with saltines, but believe it or not, the saltines were the perfect accompaniment to the Smoked Tuna Dip.
My “Copy Cat” Version of Smoked Tuna Dip
Fast forward to this holiday season, I was looking for a new appetizer recipe for a holiday party. And it must have been divine intervention, but somehow I stumbled on a recipe for a copycat Smoked Tuna Dip recipe. I just wondered if it would be similar to the one served at many of the wonderful restaurants scattered throughout the Destin, Florida, area that I’ve now sampled over the years.
Smoked Tuna Dip Ingredients
Simple, Simple, Simple
Even better was that with the exception of liquid smoke, I had all the ingredients in my fridge and pantry. And liquid smoke was easy to find in my local grocery store. All I had to do was combine the ingredients and it’s done!
How to make Smoked Tuna Dip
- First, place all the ingredients for this smoked tuna dip recipe into a large bowl.
- Out comes the trusty hand mixer. I mix the ingredients until everything blends together.
- Taste–I’ve been known to tweak the recipe a little with a couple extra drops of liquid smoke and Tabasco.
- Regarding the liquid smoke, use a REALLY light hand when adding the “smoke.” That stuff can be overpowering!
- Serve with crackers of choice.
How to serve Smoked Tuna Dip
The Smoked Tuna Dip served in the Destin, Florida, restaurants is usually served with saltine crackers (surprisingly the perfect match), but use whatever crackers you have on hand.
I think most of the restaurants leave their dip a little chunkier than mine. Personally I prefer a smoother texture. If you like a chunkier texture, spend a little less time mixing it.
Even if my version isn’t quite the same as Dewey’s, I got a thumbs up from my husband. No leftovers to take home after the party, either.
I’m putting this one in my keeper file.
A Few More of my Favorite Dips
Everyone’s Favorite Spinach Dip
Smoked Tuna Dip
Ingredients
- 1 4.5-ounce can albacore tuna in water, drained well
- 1 8-oz package cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 teaspoons liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3-4 dashes Tabasco sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon regular or smoked paprika (with a little extra to sprinkle on top)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, MIX all ingredients together using a hand mixer. TASTE and ADJUST seasoning to taste. SERVE with saltine crackers.
Notes
I tried this recipe to take to a friends birthday party. It is very good, and easy to make. Thank you for sharing this recipe.
You are very welcome, Cyndy. I’m so glad you enjoyed it.
Did you chill this in the fridge before serving
No I didn’t, Jim. But I’m sure you could for a few hours, giving the flavors time to meld together.
My family is a huge lover of smoked fish dip – whenever we go to the beach, we’re sure to order lots of it. This tuna dip is a great alternative for when we get a craving away from the beach. Thanks!
I love smoked fish dip at the beach, too, Erica. This recipe isn’t quite the same, but since I live in the Midwest, it’s definitely great for when I get a craving. It makes me want to go to the beach!
Can I make this 2 days ahead
I think that would be ok, Sharon. I’ve only made it one day ahead.
I ended up adding a little mayo and 3 cans of tuna. If you can find the garlic Crystal hot sauce it’ made a great addition.
How many people for an appetizer would this recipe serve? I am planning an event with about 60 people in attendance. We are having several other appetizers also. Thanks for any advice!
I going to say 6, Rebekah. It goes fast!