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Classic Homemade Mayonnaise

Creamy homemade mayonnaise recipe with egg yolk mustard and lemon

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A simple, creamy emulsion made from egg yolk, oil, and lemon juice. This foundational recipe yields a rich, superior condiment in just minutes, far surpassing store-bought versions. It’s the perfect base for sandwiches, salads, and dips.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1 cup neutral oil (like avocado, grapeseed, or a light olive oil)
  • 1-2 teaspoons warm water (optional, for adjusting consistency)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and salt until smooth and slightly thickened.
  2. While whisking constantly, add the oil one drop at a time until about a quarter of the oil is incorporated and the mixture is thick and creamy.
  3. Once the emulsion is stable, continue whisking constantly while adding the remaining oil in a very thin, steady stream.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if desired. If the mayonnaise is too thick, whisk in warm water, one teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Notes

For a stable emulsion, add the oil very slowly at first. If the mayonnaise breaks, start with a fresh egg yolk in a clean bowl and slowly whisk the broken mixture into it. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

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