What is mayonnaise?
Mayonnaise is a very popular condiment that is generally made from just a few common ingredients: eggs, oil and vinegar. But don’t be fooled by the simplicity of mayonnaise, it’s a very versatile condiment that is used in a variety of ways in the kitchen.
Mayonnaise adds creaminess to soups and sauces, it acts as a binding agent in salads, is often used as a spread on sandwiches and is frequently the foundation of dips and dressings.
What types of mayonnaise are there?
There are a lot of different types of mayonnaise on the market. Each one offers its own unique flavor profile, but they’re all used in the same ways. The most popular mayonnaises on the market are:
Dijon mayonnaise: Dijon mayonnaise is created with the addition of Dijon mustard. It creates a mayonnaise that has a bit more zing and is most commonly used on sandwiches and in salads.
Chipotle mayonnaise: Chipotle mayonnaise is another way to add a bit of kick to your food. It’s made by adding chipotle peppers into the blend.
Herbed mayonnaise: Herbed mayonnaise uses a blend of herbs and spices to add a bit of a more subtle flavor to your meals. Herbed mayonnaise adds a bit of flavor but isn’t as powerful as Dijon or chipotle mayonnaise.
Is mayonnaise vegan?
Most traditional mayonnaise isn’t vegan-friendly as eggs are usually a key ingredient in manufacturing mayonnaise. However, if you’re looking for a vegan-friendly mayonnaise option, you’ll be happy to know that they definitely exist! Because let’s be honest, more people are going vegan every day and companies realize they need to offer vegan alternatives.
Vegan-friendly mayonnaise is typically made by combining soy milk and oil, along with other herbs and spices depending on the brand and flavor.
Vegan mayonnaise brands
If you’re looking for a vegan mayonnaise recommendation, then you’ve come to the right place! There are many vegan-friendly mayonnaise brands out there. Here are a few of my favorites:
Just Mayo: From the company the brought us Just Egg, we have Just Mayo, my personal favorite because I often use it on sandwiches by spreading it on the bread. It has a light, fluffy texture that makes it easy to spread and packs a great flavor.
Vegenaise: Vegenaise refers themselves as “the OG of egg-free mayo”. And while I’m not entirely sure they were the first brand to create egg-free mayonnaise, they certainly have perfected it. They offer a wide variety of flavors like chipotle and pesto, and even have reduced fat and organic versions.
Sir Kensington’s Fabanaise: Sir Kensington’s Fabanaise is a unique mayonnaise that is made with aquafaba. It’s also soy-free and keto-certified.
Is there dairy in mayonnaise?
If you’re allergic to dairy or have a dairy intolerance, you’ll want to stay away from traditional mayonnaise products. Most mayonnaises are made with eggs, which is a dairy product. However, there are dairy-free alternatives on the market so always be sure to check the label!
What’s the origin of mayonnaise?
It’s widely believed that mayonnaise originated in the 18th century, in France. That’s because the first known reference to mayonnaise was located in a French cookbook produced in 1756. This recipe used egg yolks, olive oil and mustard. Over the years, vinegar would become a more common mayonnaise ingredient.
Is mayonnaise healthy?
I’m not one to really worry about whether condiments are healthy or not – so, I’m probably not the best person to answer this question. I believe that condiments are meant to add texture and flavor to our meals. When used this way, they’re consumed in moderation and are unlikely to have a huge impact on our nutrition. I mean, nobody is eating an entire jar of mayo at a time, right?
My recommendation is to enjoy condiments for what they are. Keep the recommended serving size in mind and allow them to boost the meals you enjoy!
Vegan recipes that use mayonnaise:
Chickpea salad sandwich recipe: If you’re looking for a quick, protein packed meal, you’ll want to check out this sandwich recipe.
Veggie tacos recipe: Tasty tacos that are easy to make and don’t require any heavy lifting – just chop and mix!
