Homemade Chipotle Lime Mayonnaise (Printable)

Smoky, tangy chipotle-lime mayo elevates tacos, sandwiches, and vegetables with real flavor.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
02 - 1 cup neutral oil (canola, sunflower, or light olive oil)
03 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
04 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
05 - 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
06 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

→ Flavorings

07 - 1 to 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
08 - 1 teaspoon adobo sauce (from chipotle can)
09 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
10 - Zest of 1 lime

# Step-by-Step:

01 - In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, Dijon mustard, lime juice, white wine vinegar, and sea salt until fully blended and smooth.
02 - While whisking constantly, slowly add the neutral oil, starting with a few drops. Once the mixture begins to emulsify and thicken, continue adding the oil in a thin, steady stream while whisking vigorously.
03 - After all the oil is incorporated and the mixture is thick and creamy, whisk in the chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, and lime zest until evenly distributed.
04 - Taste the mayonnaise and adjust the seasoning by adding extra lime juice or salt to preference.
05 - Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Once you taste the smoky tang, you'll find yourself reaching for it at every meal.
  • Homemade mayo is shockingly easy, and you control the spice and citrus exactly how you like it.
02 -
  • If you rush the oil, your mayo will break—patience is the real ingredient!
  • Letting the mayo sit in the fridge not only thickens it but transforms the flavors from punchy to harmonious.
03 -
  • Room temperature ingredients make emulsification easier, so plan ahead.
  • Add the chipotle and lime zest only at the end to keep their flavors bold and fresh.
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