How can I make flavored mayonnaise (for example, garlic aioli or spicy chipotle mayo)?

Question

How can you make flavored mayonnaise like garlic aioli or chipotle mayo? Get simple instructions for adding herbs, spices, and other flavorings.

Answer 1

To make flavored mayonnaise, start with a base of high-quality mayonnaise and then blend in your desired flavorings, such as roasted garlic, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, herbs, spices, or citrus zest. Adjust the quantities to taste.

Detailed Explanation:

Making flavored mayonnaise is incredibly simple and allows for endless customization. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Start with a Good Base: Begin with a high-quality, store-bought mayonnaise or homemade mayonnaise. The quality of your base will significantly impact the final flavor.
2. Choose Your Flavorings: Select your desired flavor profile. Some popular options include:
   • Garlic Aioli: Roasted garlic cloves (mashed into a paste), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
   • Spicy Chipotle Mayo: Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped or pureed), a squeeze of lime juice, and a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
   • Herb Mayo: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, chives, or tarragon (finely chopped).
   • Lemon-Dill Mayo: Lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh dill (finely chopped).
   • Sriracha Mayo: Sriracha sauce and a touch of rice vinegar.
3. Combine and Blend: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise and your chosen flavorings. Start with a small amount of the flavoring and gradually add more until you reach your desired taste. Use a whisk or a food processor to thoroughly blend the ingredients together.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the flavored mayonnaise and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more of the flavoring, salt, pepper, or a touch of acidity (lemon juice or vinegar) to balance the flavors.
5. Chill and Store: Cover the flavored mayonnaise and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pro Tip:

When using fresh herbs, gently bruise them before chopping to release their essential oils and enhance their flavor in the mayonnaise. This will give your flavored mayo a more vibrant and aromatic taste.