What is Mayonnaise Made Of?

Mayonnaise is one of the most popular condiments around the world. It’s creamy, tangy flavor adds a delicious kick to sandwiches, salads, and countless other dishes. But what is the secret that makes mayonnaise so scrumptious? What is mayonnaise made of?

Ingredients of Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is made from a combination of eggs, oil, and either vinegar or lemon juice. A traditional recipe for homemade mayonnaise calls for whole eggs, though many store-bought and commercial varieties use egg yolks. In addition, many commercial brands also contain a variety of emulsifiers and stabilizers.

The emulsifiers used in mayonnaise are usually mustard, which is made from ground mustard seed and vinegar, or a combination of egg yolks and lemon juice. The stabilizers usually consist of vegetable oils, such as soybean, corn or canola, or hydrogenated vegetable oil. Some brands also contain preservatives, such as potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, and citric acid.

The Making Of Mayonnaise

To make mayonnaise, the ingredients are whipped together until they form an emulsion. This is a stable combination of water and oil, which is made possible by the emulsifiers. The egg proteins act like a glue, surrounding and trapping droplets of oil within each egg white and yolk, suspending them in the liquid.

The oil used to make mayonnaise can also affect its flavor and texture, so choose a neutral-tasting oil like canola or, for a lighter flavor, sunflower oil. Extra-virgin olive oil gives the mayonnaise a stronger flavor, so it’s best reserved for dressings, where the flavor can be highlighted.

Conclusion

When it comes to making and enjoying mayonnaise, there are almost endless possibilities. Whether you’re making your own from scratch with fresh eggs, or grabbing a bottle from the store shelf, there is something for everyone. Now that you understand what is mayonnaise made of, you can start experimenting with the many variations. Have fun!