What are some creative sauces or dressings I can make using mayonnaise as a base (e.g., tartar sauce, Russian dressing)?

Question

What creative sauces can you make using mayonnaise as a base? Get recipes for popular dressings like tartar sauce and Russian dressing.

Answer 1

Mayonnaise can be transformed into a variety of delicious sauces and dressings by adding ingredients like herbs, spices, citrus, and hot sauce. Some creative options include sriracha mayo, dill aioli, chipotle mayo, and lemon-herb mayo.

Detailed Explanation:

Mayonnaise is a versatile base for creating a wide range of flavorful sauces and dressings. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it an excellent canvas for incorporating various ingredients. Here's a breakdown of how to create some exciting variations:

1. Sriracha Mayo: Combine mayonnaise with sriracha sauce to taste. Start with a small amount of sriracha and add more until you reach your desired level of spiciness. A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavor. This is great on burgers, sandwiches, or as a dipping sauce for fries.
2. Dill Aioli: Mince fresh dill and garlic. Mix them into mayonnaise with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper. This aioli is delicious with grilled fish, vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches.
3. Chipotle Mayo: Blend chipotle peppers in adobo sauce until smooth. Mix a spoonful or two of the chipotle puree into mayonnaise. Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra zing. This mayo is fantastic on tacos, quesadillas, or as a dipping sauce for sweet potato fries.
4. Lemon-Herb Mayo: Finely chop fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and tarragon. Mix the herbs into mayonnaise with lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mayo is excellent with grilled chicken, fish, or as a spread for sandwiches.
5. Roasted Garlic Aioli: Roast a head of garlic until soft and caramelized. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them into a paste. Mix the garlic paste into mayonnaise with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt. This aioli is delicious with steak, roasted vegetables, or as a dip for artichokes.
6. Curry Mayo: Mix curry powder into mayonnaise. Start with a small amount and add more to taste. A pinch of turmeric can enhance the color. This mayo is great on chicken salad sandwiches, wraps, or as a dipping sauce for samosas.

Pro Tip:

When making mayonnaise-based sauces, start with high-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using too much liquid, as it can make the sauce too thin. Taste and adjust the seasonings as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.