Definition of

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise on cutting board and parsley

Mayonnaise is a very popular dressing to accompany hot and cold dishes.

A dressing that is made by beating egg and oil is known as mayonnaise or mayonnaise . The term comes from the French word mayonnaise .

The origins of mayonnaise are in Spain . The name of this dressing, in fact, would be linked to Mahón , a city on the island of Menorca .

cold sauce

Mayonnaise is a cold sauce that is prepared by emulsifying its ingredients. In addition to the egg and oil that are beaten, lemon juice and salt are usually added.

In Spanish territory, and also in countries such as France and Italy , it is common for mayonnaise to continue to be prepared in an artisanal way to season fish and vegetables. However, the mayonnaise that is most consumed worldwide is that produced industrially , generally intended to season hamburgers , hot dogs and other fast foods .

French fries , sandwiches , and salads are also often seasoned with mayonnaise. Even other dishes can contain mayonnaise, since its use basically depends on the consumer's taste .

It is important to keep in mind that, in the case of homemade or artisanal mayonnaise, the sauce may contain bacteria of the salmonella genus that cause the disease known as salmonellosis . This is because raw eggs are used, which could be contaminated. Industrial mayonnaise does not cause this problem because it uses pasteurization of eggs, although its high fat content can contribute to an excessive increase in cholesterol and, consequently, the risk of suffering from cardiovascular disorders.

Recipe with egg

Making homemade mayonnaise requires a certain degree of practice and skill, but it is a very satisfying challenge, allowing us to enjoy this delicious sauce at any time, without depending on commercial stores.

Ingredients:

  • 1 fresh egg at room temperature;
  • 1 cup vegetable oil (either sunflower or canola);
  • 1 tablespoon mustard (optional, but it helps emulsify the mayonnaise);
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice;
  • salt and pepper to taste.

In a bowl or tall container, add the egg and the tablespoon of mustard. We must ensure that all the ingredients are at room temperature to facilitate emulsification . Using a mixer, mix the egg and mustard on low speed for a few seconds, until well combined.

With the mixer running, add the oil slowly, in a constant, thin stream. This is crucial to achieving proper emulsification, which will make the mayonnaise have a thick, smooth texture . Continue adding the oil and beating until the mixture thickens and has a consistency similar to that of store-bought mayonnaise.

Add the white vinegar or lemon juice and mix for a few seconds. Taste the mayonnaise and adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Once satisfied, we can transfer it to a jar and store it in the refrigerator.

vegan recipe

Vegan mayonnaise contains no eggs or animal products, but still offers a smooth texture and delicious flavor. Let's see the ingredients below:

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened soy milk;
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice;
  • 1 cup vegetable oil;
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard;
  • 1 small clove of garlic (optional, for flavor);
  • salt to taste.
French fries with mayonnaise and ketchup

French fries are usually seasoned with mayonnaise and ketchup.

In a tall container, mix the soy milk with the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes so that the milk thickens a little. This step is essential to emulate the texture of traditional mayonnaise. Peel the garlic clove and add it to the mixture. With a mixer, mix everything on low speed.

At the same time, slowly add the vegetable oil in a constant, thin stream, just like in the traditional mayonnaise recipe. Continue beating until the mixture thickens. Add the mustard and salt to taste, and continue mixing until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Taste the result and adjust the seasonings as necessary. Store the mayonnaise in a jar and refrigerate it.