To make mayonnaise at home, you need a few basic ingredients and either a food processor, immersion blender, or whisk. Here is a straightforward method based on expert recipes:
Ingredients
- 1 large egg (or 2 egg yolks)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice)
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt
- About 1 cup neutral-flavored oil (like light olive oil, avocado oil, canola, or grapeseed oil)
Instructions Using an Immersion Blender (Quick and Foolproof)
- In a tall, narrow container or jar, combine the egg, mustard, vinegar, and salt.
- Pour the oil over the top of these ingredients and let it settle for about 15 seconds.
- Insert the immersion blender, pressing it firmly to the bottom without moving it, and blend for about 10-15 seconds until the mixture starts to emulsify and thicken.
- Slowly lift and tilt the blender to incorporate the rest of the oil, blending until the mayonnaise is thick and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lemon juice, or vinegar if desired.
- Transfer to a clean container and refrigerate. Use within 1 week
Instructions Using a Food Processor
- Add the egg to the food processor and process for about 20 seconds.
- Add mustard, vinegar, and salt, processing for another 20 seconds.
- With the processor running, slowly add the oil in tiny drops at first until about a quarter of the oil is incorporated to ensure proper emulsification.
- Then add the oil in a thin stream while processing until all oil is added and the mixture thickens.
- Scrape down the sides and process for a few more seconds.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate
Tips
- Adding oil very slowly at the start is critical to emulsify properly.
- Use neutral or mild-flavored oils for best taste.
- If mayonnaise breaks or is too thin, try chilling the mixture or adding a bit more mustard or egg yolk.
- Mayonnaise can be flavored with garlic, herbs, or lemon zest if desired
This homemade mayonnaise is fresh, creamy, and can be made in just a few minutes with common kitchen tools and ingredients.