There’s something wonderfully satisfying about creating your own condiments from scratch, and homemade mayonnaise is no exception. One sunny afternoon, as I flicked through my pantry, I decided to give traditional mayo a twist. Why settle for store-bought when whipping up a creamy, flavorful batch is just a few simple ingredients away?
With just an egg, Dijon mustard, and a drizzle of oil, I transformed a humble condiment into a culinary delight fit for sandwiches, salads, and dips. The rich, velvety texture combined with a hint of tang is addictive—and the best part? It takes only ten minutes! Perfect for those who have grown weary of fast food and are eager to bring the freshness of homemade flavors into their kitchen.
Join me as I share this incredibly easy homemade mayonnaise recipe that not only elevates your dishes but also sparks joy in every bite. Let’s take a step away from the jar and discover the magic of creating something deliciously unique right in your own home!
Why You'll Love This Homemade Mayonnaise
- This homemade mayonnaise recipe is incredibly easy, allowing you to whip up a creamy condiment in just ten minutes.
- The bold flavors of Dijon mustard and fresh lemon juice elevate your dishes to a whole new level of deliciousness.
- Its versatility means you can use it as a spread, dip, or dressing, making it perfect for any meal.
- Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making it from scratch, showcasing your cooking skills with a visually appealing, homemade creation.
Homemade Mayonnaise Ingredients
• Discover the simplicity of making homemade mayonnaise with these easy-to-find ingredients.
For the Base
- Large egg – acts as the emulsifier for a creamy texture.
- Dijon mustard – adds a delightful tang that enhances flavor.
- Red or white wine vinegar – provides acidity to balance the richness.
- Fine sea salt – enhances all the other flavors in your mayo.
For the Oil
- Safflower oil or vegetable oil – use either for a neutral flavor and silky finish.
Optional Twist
- Fresh lemon juice – a touch brings brightness and freshness to the homemade mayonnaise.
How to Make Homemade Mayonnaise
-
Combine the egg, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and sea salt in a mixing bowl. This is the flavorful base of your mayonnaise. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re well blended, creating a vibrant concoction.
-
Drizzle in the safflower oil slowly while whisking continuously. Watch as the mixture starts to emulsify and thicken—this is the magic moment! Keep whisking vigorously for about 1-2 minutes until you achieve that creamy texture.
-
Mix in the fresh lemon juice, if using, until fully incorporated. This optional addition gives your homemade mayonnaise a refreshing brightness. Taste it, and enjoy the burst of flavor!
Optional: Add a pinch of garlic powder for an extra kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Homemade Mayonnaise Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity by personalizing this homemade mayonnaise to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
-
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or dill for a garden-fresh twist. Just a handful will elevate your mayonnaise to a fragrant delight!
-
Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to heat things up. This spicy variation can make your dishes sing!
-
Garlic Lovers: Incorporate minced garlic or garlic powder for a zesty flavor. A creamy garlic mayo goes perfectly with sandwiches, adding a pungent touch.
-
Avocado Swap: Replace half of the oil with ripe avocado for a creamy, healthier alternative. It adds nutrients while maintaining that luscious texture!
-
Citrus Zest: Grate in some lemon or lime zest to brighten your mayo with a zesty flair. The added brightness will thrill your taste buds!
-
Smoky Flavor: Stir in a touch of smoked paprika for an irresistible smoky flavor. This twist creates a unique depth of flavor that’s perfect for adding character.
-
Vegan Version: Swap out the egg for aquafaba (chickpea brine) and use an oil that’s certified vegan for a delightful vegan mayonnaise. You won’t miss the egg!
-
Sweet Agrumato: For a hint of sweetness, incorporate a spoonful of honey or maple syrup. It brings a delightful surprise to your dressing or dip!
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Mayonnaise
Fridge: Store your homemade mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week for optimal freshness and flavor.
Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze homemade mayonnaise for up to 2 months. However, the texture may change, so it’s ideal for use in recipes rather than as a spread.
Thawing: To thaw, transfer the frozen mayonnaise to the fridge overnight. Whisk it gently before using to restore its creamy consistency.
Reheating: Homemade mayonnaise is best served cold, but if you need to bring it to room temperature, let it sit out for about 15-30 minutes before serving.
Make Ahead Options
Homemade mayonnaise is a fantastic candidate for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeks! You can easily prepare the base ingredients—egg, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and sea salt—up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk these ingredients together and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade mayonnaise, just drizzle in the safflower oil while whisking until emulsified. To maintain the best quality, be sure to cover it tightly and leave it in the fridge until you’re ready to finish. You’ll have creamy, fresh-tasting mayo that elevates your dishes with minimal fuss!
What to Serve with Homemade Mayonnaise?
Imagine enhancing your meals with delightful pairings that complement the rich, creamy nature of your homemade condiment.
-
Crispy French Fries: The perfect contrast to the smooth mayo; dip them in for a satisfying crunch and creaminess.
-
Fresh Vegetable Platter: Crisp veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provide a refreshing crunch when paired with your tangy mayo.
-
Grilled Chicken Sandwiches: Slather your mayo on grilled chicken for an ultra-juicy bite, adding depth and flavor to every mouthful.
-
Deviled Eggs: Elevate this classic appetizer by mixing in slightly tangy homemade mayo for a creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
-
Potato Salad: Use your mayonnaise as a base for potato salad, creating a creamy and tangy dressing that binds everything beautifully together.
-
Tuna Salad: A generous dollop of homemade mayo transforms simple canned tuna into a gourmet dish, packed with flavor and creaminess.
-
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These spicy bites contrast beautifully with the cool, creamy mayo; it’s a match made in flavor heaven.
-
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink that complements the richness of your mayo-laden dishes, providing a bright and zesty contrast.
-
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet end, serve these with a light dusting of sea salt; the savory notes of homemade mayo hint will surprise and delight.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Homemade Mayonnaise, ensure your egg is at room temperature to help the emulsification process.
- A common mistake is adding the oil too quickly; drizzle it slowly while whisking to create that desired creamy texture.
- Use a whisk or an immersion blender for smoother results, as this can significantly enhance the emulsification.
- Always taste your mayonnaise after mixing; if it seems too rich, a splash more vinegar or lemon juice can brighten it up perfectly.
Homemade Mayonnaise Recipe FAQs
What is the best egg to use for homemade mayonnaise?
Absolutely! For the best results, use a large, fresh egg at room temperature. Fresh eggs not only emulsify better but also enhance the flavor of your homemade mayonnaise.
How should I store homemade mayonnaise?
Store your homemade mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to keep it tightly sealed to maintain its freshness and prevent contamination.
Can I freeze homemade mayonnaise?
I don’t recommend freezing homemade mayonnaise because the high-fat content can cause it to separate, resulting in an undesirable texture. Instead, make smaller batches to avoid waste, as it keeps fresh in the fridge for about a week.
What should I do if my mayonnaise is too thin?
If your mayonnaise turns out too thin, don’t worry! Simply whisk in another tablespoon of oil gradually. If it still doesn’t thicken after that, you can start a new batch with another egg and mix the thin mayonnaise in, whisking until it emulsifies.
Can I use homemade mayonnaise for my pet?
While a tiny bit of mayonnaise isn’t harmful to pets, it’s best to avoid giving them any, especially if they have dietary restrictions or allergies. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your furry friends!
What if my mayonnaise curdles?
No problem—this happens if the oil was added too quickly or the egg was too cold. If your mixture curdles, you can start with a new egg yolk in a clean bowl, then slowly whisk in the curdled mayonnaise. This will help it emulsify again, giving you that creamy consistency you want!
Homemade Mayonnaise
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, add the large egg, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and fine sea salt. Give it a gentle whisk until everything blends smoothly.
- Slowly drizzle in the safflower oil while whisking continuously until the mixture emulsifies, turns creamy, and thickens—about 1-2 minutes.
- If using, whisk in the fresh lemon juice until perfectly combined.
Leave a Reply