CopyKat website thinks it's divined the recipe for Sauk Valley's beloved Jan Sauce

STERLING – As Candlelight Inn owner Matt Prescott himself will tell you, it's no longer a huge family secret.

But CopyKat.com, a website known for ferreting out fave restaurant recipes nationwide, recently took on the Candlelight's beloved Jan's Sauce, created by Matt's mom in 1971 to complement its now regionally renowned Chicken George battered chicken strips.

"Copycat Jan's sauce is one of the best chicken finger sauces you have never heard from," the website posted May 8.

"From the Candlelight Inn in Illinois, this is a sauce all locals know, love, and crave ... This sauce is easy to make and tastes great on battered chicken strips, chicken tenders, and even a salad. What’s more, it stays fresh in your refrigerator for up to 10 days.

"Wonderful as a dip for battered chicken strips. Just as good as the original!"

Well, you be the judge of that.

Here's CopyKat's version:

INGREDIENTS

Mayonnaise

Sugar

Vinegar

Tabasco Sauce

Place all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.

Chill for at least 15 minutes or until sugar dissolves.

Serve it with fried chicken tenders, or fish sticks, or on a sandwich or a salad, or drizzled over apple chunks, or heck, just lick it off your fingers, it's that good.

If you'd rather just stick with the original, though, Candlelight now offers delivery from its Sterling location, as well as drive-through and curbside delivery in Sterling at 907 N. Locust St., 815-625-2600, and Rock Falls at 2201 First Ave., 815-626-1897.

You also can go to www.candlelightinnrestaurant.com to order.