Mayo Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best homemade mayonnaise ingredients, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Egg – Use a raw egg at room temperature. Egg substitutes won’t work here, sorry. Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth to the mayo recipe. You can also use yellow mustard (I’d recommend a slightly smaller amount) or a pinch of mustard powder. Apple Cider Vinegar – You can also swap this with white vinegar, fresh lemon juice, or white wine vinegar. Sea Salt – I use 1/4 teaspoon, but you can double that if you prefer a saltier mayo. Avocado Oil – Avocado oil is the best choice for homemade mayonnaise. It tastes light, and is less processed than the soybean oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil you’ll find in store-bought (these are also over 90% GMO in the U.S.). If you don’t have avocado oil, you can use any other neutral-flavored oil, such as refined liquid coconut oil or light olive oil. Extra-virgin olive oil also works, but the flavor will come through in the mayo.
How To Make Mayonnaise
This section shows how to make mayo, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
How To Fix Broken Mayo
Over the years I’ve heard about several tricks for fixing broken mayo. To be honest, using this immersion blender method, I have never had it break. It is seriously the perfect no fail homemade mayonnaise! But just in case, I still wanted to include some helpful tips for how to fix it if it’s broken or too thin: The ingredients won’t layer properly in a bowl, so a jar or wide glass is necessary. I prefer the immersion blender method for making this mayonnaise recipe, because it’s easier to wash than a food processor and I can store the mayo in the same jar. But if you don’t have one, here is how to make mayonnaise using a food processor:
Combine all the ingredients except the olive oil in a small food processor. Turn on the food processor. While it’s running, and pour in the oil in a thin stream, until the homemade mayo forms.
Flavor Variations
Looking for some new and exciting flavors in your homemade mayonnaise? Try these ideas:
Spicy Mayo – Also known as sriracha mayo! Simply mix 2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce with 1 cup of your homemade mayo for a fiery kick. Chipotle Mayo – Blend 1 cup of this mayonnaise recipe with 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and a squeeze of lime juice for a smoky, tangy taste. It tastes amazing with air fryer sweet potatoes! Garlic Mayo – To make garlicky mayonnaise, add 1 to 2 minced garlic cloves to 1 cup of this mayo. If you love garlic, also check out garlic aioli, which is similar but uses garlic as the primary flavor. Mayo Ketchup – Combine 1 cup of mayo with 1/2 cup ketchup (or make your own homemade ketchup that tastes even better!) and a tablespoon of lemon juice for a sweet and tangy sauce. This is the perfect dip for air fryer French fries or garlic parmesan fries!
Storage Instructions
Store this homemade mayonnaise recipe right in the jar (in the refrigerator) for up to a week.
Can You Freeze Mayonnaise?
No, it’s not recommended to freeze mayonnaise, as it will separate and lose its creamy texture when thawed.
Ways To Use Homemade Mayonnaise
You can use this homemade mayonnaise recipe just like regular mayo. Here are some fun and tasty ideas to try it out in your kitchen:
Salads – I use this mayonnaise recipe in all of my creamy salads, including chicken salad, creamy tuna salad, classic egg salad, and even cauliflower potato salad. It’s also delicious a simple dressing for 7 layer salad. Seafood – Mayo makes a surprisingly delicious topping on fish, like salmon with mayo and parmesan crusted tilapia. If you like the idea of dipping foods, you can serve your favorite crackers or veggies with creamy shrimp salad or lobster salad. Salad Dressings – It’s perfect for coleslaw, or as a creamy base for a homemade ranch or Caesar dressing. Sandwiches and Wraps – Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for extra flavor. Homemade mayonnaise pairs well with leftover turkey, BLTs, burgers, or veggie wraps. Dips – Use it as a base for a creamy dip, like hot crab dip, spinach dip, or French onion dip.
More Homemade Condiment Recipes
If you’re excited about homemade condiments, there’s more to explore! Here are more simple recipes that add flavor to your meals, all with minutes of prep: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. 📖 Want more recipes like this? Find this one and many more in my Easy Keto Cookbook here.
