Granny's Homemade Mayonnaise
Discover the joy of making your own condiments with Granny's Homemade Mayonnaise recipe. This creamy, flavorful mayonnaise is easy to make and perfect for sandwiches, salads, and dips. Granny's recipe brings together the traditional elements of this classic condiment, resulting in a rich, tangy, and utterly satisfying treat.
Creating the perfect mayonnaise can seem daunting, but Granny's step-by-step guide makes it a breeze. From blending the ingredients to achieving the perfect emulsification, you'll be a mayonnaise expert in no time. Back in Granny's day, she'd have a jar of fresh mayo and three pies under her belt by breakfast.
Ingredients
1 large egg at room temperature 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon red or white wine vinegar 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste 1 cup (240 ml) neutral flavored oil, grapeseed, safflower or canola are best 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, optional
Method
- 1. Gather all your ingredients. Ensure the egg is at room temperature.
- 2. Add the egg to the small bowl of a food processor and process for 20 seconds. Add the mustard, vinegar, and salt. Process for another 20 seconds.
- 3. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl, turn the food processor on then begin to slowly add the oil in tiny drops until about a quarter of the oil has been added. This is critical for proper emulsification. When you notice that the mixture is beginning to thicken and emulsify, you can be a little less strict. With the processor on, continue to add it slowly, but increase to a very thin stream instead of drops of oil.
- 4. When all of the oil has been added, scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl and process for an extra 10 seconds. Taste mayonnaise for seasoning then add salt, lemon juice or extra vinegar to taste. Note, if the mayo seems too thin, slowly stream in more oil with the processor running until thick.
All About Mayonnaise: A Creamy Journey
Embark on a creamy journey into the heart of homemade condiments with Mayonnaise. This rich, tangy sauce made of egg, oil, vinegar, and seasonings is a staple in many cuisines around the world. From its historical origins to its modern-day variations, Mayonnaise is a testament to the universal love for creamy, flavorful condiments. It's not just a sandwich spread or a salad dressing, but a culinary symbol that has stood the test of time.
The History of Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise is believed to have originated in France in the 18th century, with many stories attributing its invention to the chef of Duke de Richelieu. During a victory celebration, the chef realized that there was no cream for the victory feast. Improvising with available ingredients, he created an emulsion of eggs and oil, giving birth to the first version of what we now know as mayonnaise. Since then, it has become a staple in various cuisines, used in everything from sandwiches to salads, and has evolved with different flavors and variations.
Over the centuries, mayonnaise has crossed borders and oceans, making its way into kitchens around the world. It has been adopted and adapted by different cultures, each adding their unique twist to this classic condiment. Today, mayonnaise is more than just a French invention; it's a global phenomenon that continues to delight palates and enhance dishes with its creamy, tangy goodness.
Regional Variations
From Europe to America, Mayonnaise takes on different forms and flavors. In Spain, a variation called 'aioli' incorporates garlic for a robust flavor. This Spanish version is often served with seafood, meats, and vegetables, and is a key ingredient in the famous Spanish dish, Paella.
In Russia, mayonnaise is used as a base for a variety of salads. It's so popular that it's often found in dishes at every meal, from simple sandwiches to gourmet recipes. The Russian version of mayonnaise, known as "Provansal," often includes additional ingredients like mustard and spices for an extra kick.
And in Japan, a slightly sweeter version is popular as a sandwich spread and sushi condiment. Known as "Kewpie" mayonnaise, this Japanese variant is made with rice vinegar instead of distilled vinegar, giving it a sweeter, tangier flavor profile. It's a staple in many Japanese dishes, including sushi, okonomiyaki, and takoyaki.
Serving Suggestions
Mayonnaise is a versatile condiment that can be used in a myriad of ways. It pairs well with sandwiches, adding a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that enhances the other ingredients. It's also a key ingredient in many salads, like potato salad and coleslaw, providing a rich, creamy base that ties all the elements together.
Mayonnaise can also be used as a base for various dips and dressings. By adding different herbs, spices, and flavorings, you can transform basic mayonnaise into a gourmet sauce. For instance, add garlic and you have aioli, add chipotle peppers and you have a spicy, smoky dip, or add herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh, vibrant dressing.
For a complete homemade experience, consider serving Mayonnaise with other homemade favorites. It's a perfect accompaniment to a grilled chicken sandwich, adding a creamy contrast to the smoky, charred chicken. It's also a great addition to a fresh garden salad, providing a rich, tangy dressing that elevates the fresh vegetables. Or use it as a dip for crispy french fries, adding a creamy, tangy element that complements the salty, crispy fries perfectly.
Mayonnaise is also a fantastic base for creating your own unique sauces and dressings. By adding different herbs, spices, and flavorings, you can transform this simple condiment into a gourmet sauce that's perfect for your dishes. Whether you're making a spicy chipotle mayo for a gourmet burger, a tangy herb dressing for a salad, or a robust garlic aioli for dipping, homemade mayonnaise is the perfect starting point.
So, whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, mayonnaise is a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and versatile nature make it a beloved condiment around the world. So the next time you're in the kitchen, why not embark on a creamy journey and whip up some homemade mayonnaise? It's a culinary adventure that's sure to delight your taste buds!