A cornerstone of French cold sauces, classic mayonnaise is a luxurious emulsion of egg yolks, oil, and acid. Its luscious texture and mild tang make it the perfect base for aioli, remoulade, and countless sandwich spreads.
Ingredients
- 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp white wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 cup neutral oil (e.g., grapeseed, sunflower)
- Salt & white pepper, to taste
Method
- Whisk foundation: In a bowl, vigorously whisk together egg yolks, mustard, and vinegar until pale and slightly thickened.
- Emulsify oil: Very slowly drizzle oil in a thin, steady stream while whisking constantly. Begin with drops, then thin stream as mixture thickens and emulsifies.
- Adjust consistency: If too thick, whisk in a few drops of warm water. If too thin, continue adding oil.
- Season: Stir in salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 30 min to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition Facts (per Tbsp / ~15 g)
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 95 kcal | 10 g | 0 g | 0 g |
Servings: Makes ~1 cup (~16 Tbsp)
FAQs
- Why is my mayo runny?
You likely added oil too quickly—start slower, whisk continuously, and use room‑temperature ingredients. - Can I use olive oil?
Yes, but strong‑flavored olive oil can impart bitterness; consider a lighter extra‑virgin or mix with neutral oil.
Substitutions
- Vegan: Replace yolks with aquafaba (chickpea liquid) and use plant‑based oil.
- Flavored: Fold in herbs, garlic, or sriracha for compound mayonnaise variations.
- Gluten‑free: Naturally gluten‑free—just ensure mustard is certified GF.









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