4-Ingredient Homemade Mayonnaise Recipe

Easy, Creamy, and Perfect Every Time!

Are you ready to take your cooking to the next level with a simple yet game-changing condiment? This 4-Ingredient Homemade Mayonnaise Recipe is a quick, foolproof way to create a creamy, luscious mayo that’s far better than anything store-bought. If you’ve ever wondered how to make mayonnaise at home, this is the perfect recipe for beginners. With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll have a rich, customizable homemade mayo that will become your go-to kitchen staple.

Why Make Homemade Mayonnaise?

Creating your own mayonnaise has so many benefits:

Better Flavor: Freshly made mayo tastes incredible compared to store-bought brands. It’s rich, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
Simple Ingredients: With this easy mayonnaise recipe, you’ll skip the preservatives and additives found in commercial products.
Customizable: Whether you like it tangier, spicier, or with a hint of garlic, this homemade condiment is completely adaptable to your taste.
Saves Money: A small batch of homemade mayo costs less than most premium mayonnaise brands.
Quick to Make: From start to finish, it takes less than 10 minutes to whip up this mayonnaise recipe!

What You’ll Need

This homemade mayonnaise recipe uses only four ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

1 large egg yolk: Provides richness and emulsifies the ingredients.
1 cup of neutral oil: Use a light oil like canola, grapeseed, or sunflower for a traditional mayo flavor. Olive oil works too, but stick to light-tasting varieties.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick and helps stabilize the emulsion.
1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice: For a bright, slightly tangy finish.

Optional Add-Ins:

A pinch of salt (adjust to taste).
Garlic for an aioli twist.
A dash of paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.

How to Make Mayonnaise at Home

Follow these simple steps to create a foolproof batch of homemade mayo:

1. Gather Your Ingredients

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This is key for achieving a stable emulsion.

2. Whisk or Blend

You can make this homemade mayonnaise recipe by hand, using a blender, or with an immersion blender. Here’s how:

By Hand: Place the egg yolk, mustard, and vinegar in a bowl. Whisk together until smooth. Slowly drizzle in the oil while whisking constantly until thick and creamy.
In a Blender: Add all ingredients except the oil to the blender. Blend on low speed and gradually pour in the oil until the mixture thickens.
With an Immersion Blender: Combine all ingredients in a tall container. Insert the blender, starting at the bottom, and blend until the mayo emulsifies.

3. Taste and Adjust

Once the mayonnaise reaches your desired consistency, taste it. Add more salt, lemon juice, or mustard to suit your preference.

4. Store Properly

Transfer the mayo to a clean, airtight container and refrigerate immediately. Homemade mayo lasts about 5-7 days in the fridge.

Tips for Success

Choose the Right Oil: Avoid strongly flavored oils (like extra virgin olive oil) unless you want a very distinct taste. Neutral oils work best for traditional mayo.
Don’t Rush: When adding the oil, pour it in slowly. Too much at once can break the emulsion.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs or oil may cause the mixture to separate.
Fixing a Broken Mayo: If the emulsion breaks, don’t worry! Start with a new egg yolk, and slowly whisk in the broken mayo mixture to re-emulsify.

Ways to Use Homemade Mayo

Homemade mayonnaise isn’t just for sandwiches—there are so many delicious ways to enjoy this versatile homemade condiment:

Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread it on your favorite bread or tortilla for a creamy, flavorful touch.
Salad Dressings: Mix it with herbs and vinegar to create a quick and easy dressing.
Dips and Sauces: Blend with ketchup for a classic fry sauce or with sriracha for a spicy dip.
Marinades: Use it as a base for marinades to keep meats juicy and flavorful.
Potato Salad or Coleslaw: Elevate these classic sides with your fresh, creamy homemade mayo.

Variations to Try

This easy mayonnaise recipe is the perfect base for experimenting with different flavors. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Garlic Aioli: Add a minced clove of garlic for a Mediterranean twist.
Spicy Mayo: Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha, hot sauce, or chili powder.
Herb Mayo: Blend in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil for a garden-fresh flavor.
Truffle Mayo: Stir in a touch of truffle oil for a luxurious condiment.
Chipotle Mayo: Add canned chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky, spicy kick.

Common Questions About Making Mayonnaise

1. Can I Use Olive Oil?

Yes! Just make sure to use light-tasting olive oil to avoid a strong, bitter flavor.

2. What if My Mayo Turns Out Too Thin?

If your mayo is too thin, it’s likely that the oil was added too quickly. You can thicken it by adding another egg yolk or starting fresh and slowly incorporating the thin mayo into the new mixture.

3. Can I Make This Recipe Without Mustard?

Yes, but mustard helps stabilize the emulsion and adds flavor. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, try using yellow mustard or leave it out entirely for a milder mayo.

4. How Long Does Homemade Mayonnaise Last?

Since there are no preservatives, homemade mayo lasts 5-7 days in the refrigerator. Always store it in an airtight container and keep it chilled.

Why This Homemade Mayonnaise Recipe Is a Must-Try

This homemade mayo recipe is the ultimate kitchen hack for anyone looking to elevate their cooking game. It’s simple, delicious, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe for beginners will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about creating a homemade condiment that rivals anything you’d buy at the store.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to make mayonnaise, you’ll never go back to the store-bought version. This easy mayonnaise recipe delivers rich, creamy results every time, and the possibilities for customization are endless. With just four ingredients and a few minutes, you’ll have a delicious, homemade staple that elevates any dish.

So grab your whisk (or blender) and give this homemade mayonnaise recipe a try. Trust us, your sandwiches, salads, and dips will thank you