Kewpie mayo is a popular Japanese brand of mayonnaise known for its rich, creamy texture and distinctive umami flavor. Unlike typical American mayonnaise, which often uses whole eggs, Kewpie mayo is made exclusively with egg yolks, giving it a thicker, custard-like consistency and a stronger eggy flavor. It also uses apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar instead of distilled vinegar, which adds a sweeter, milder tang
. Key characteristics of Kewpie mayo include:
- Made with egg yolks, not whole eggs, resulting in a richer flavor and deeper umami taste
- Uses a blend of vinegars (rice, apple cider, red wine, distilled) for a balanced acidity and subtle sweetness
- Contains monosodium glutamate (MSG), which enhances the umami flavor and makes it stand out from other mayonnaises
- Has a smooth, creamy texture due to finely emulsified oil particles
- Packaged in a distinctive squeeze bottle with a red cap and Kewpie doll logo
The flavor profile is described as mellower, creamier, slightly fruity, and more assertive than American brands, with no added sugar and a pleasant eggy aroma
. It is widely regarded by chefs and food enthusiasts as a superior mayonnaise for its unique taste and texture. In summary, Kewpie mayo is a Japanese mayonnaise made from egg yolks, vinegars, vegetable oil, salt, spices, and MSG, known for its creamy texture, rich egg flavor, and pronounced umami
