Cold technique · Essential method

Fresh mayonnaise

A stable egg-and-oil emulsion with controllable acidity.

Time10 minutes
MakesAbout 250 ml
HeatNo cooking
Homemade mayonnaise in a small glass jar and cream bowl

Method

  1. 1

    Whisk yolk, mustard, acid and salt in a stable bowl.

  2. 2

    Add oil a few drops at a time while whisking continuously.

  3. 3

    Once thick and stable, add the remaining oil in a thin stream.

  4. 4

    Adjust salt and acidity; refrigerate immediately.

What to look for

Use the cues, not only the clock.

The mixture turns glossy and holds soft ridges.

Each addition of oil should disappear before more is added.

If it goes wrong

Split mayonnaise: start with a fresh yolk or teaspoon of water and slowly whisk the split mixture into it.

Too thick: whisk in cold water a teaspoon at a time.