Homemade Flavored Mayonnaise

This unique flavored mayonnaise recipe brings a delightful twist to a classic condiment. It infuses a hint of natural, smoky aroma by incorporating a special process involving hay. Ideal for those seeking a homemade touch, this mayonnaise balances creamy and tangy flavors with a customizable level of seasoning. The recipe is perfect for sandwiches, salads, and as a dipping sauce, offering a gourmet touch to everyday meals. It highlights the use of neutral oils and fresh ingredients such as egg yolks and lemons to achieve an exquisite taste. The entire preparation is an interesting culinary experience, offering not only flavor but also an opportunity to learn a distinctive technique. Suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, this recipe requires a safe environment to process the hay and oil mixture. With adjustable seasoning options, it provides versatility to cater to different taste requirements. Whether for a casual meal or a special occasion, this mayonnaise is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

500 ml neutral-tasting oil (such as rapeseed or grapeseed oil)
10 egg yolks
Handful of hay (available at specialized pet stores if not sourced locally)

Seasonings:

Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Lemon juice to taste

Preparation Time

Total: 50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Hay: Begin by placing the hay in a large, fireproof pot. For safety, this step is recommended to be performed outdoors.
Ignite the Hay: Carefully light the hay, allowing it to burn briefly, ensuring it doesn't fully incinerate.
Add Oil: While the hay is still smoldering, pour the oil over it. This process infuses the oil with a subtle smoky aroma.
Wait: Let the oil sit with the hay for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Strain the Oil: Using a fine sieve, strain the oil to remove any residue, retaining only the infused oil.
Blend Egg Yolks: In a narrow container, use an immersion blender to mix the egg yolks until they become paler in color.
Incorporate Oil: Gradually add the infused oil to the yolks. It's crucial to introduce the oil slowly to achieve the right consistency.
Emulsify: Continue blending until the mixture thickens into a creamy mayonnaise.
Seasoning: Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice according to your taste preferences.
Final Blend: Give it one last blend to ensure all flavors are evenly incorporated.

Tips

Focus on Safety: When burning hay, ensure you're in a well-ventilated, fire-safe environment.
Alternate Oils: Substitute the oils with any neutral-flavored oil if desired.
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to experiment with additional spices or herbs for a unique flavor profile.

Variations

Herb Mayonnaise: Add finely chopped herbs like dill or parsley during the blending process.
Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs with aquafaba (chickpea water) for a vegan-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with freshly baked bread or crusty rolls.
Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a summer BBQ.
Use as a base in potato or pasta salads.

Best Places

The Mayonnaise Bar - Renowned for its artisanal mayonnaise varieties. Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Condiment Co. - Rave reviews for its unique flavor infusions. Location: London, England.
Maison de la Mayo - Offers gourmet mayo tastings. Location: Paris, France.
Mayo & More - Specializes in flavored mayonnaise, paired with fries. Location: Brussels, Belgium.
The Sauce Spot - Known for its wide array of homemade sauces. Location: Rome, Italy.
Salsa & Spice - Features local ingredients, including various mustards and sauces. Location: Barcelona, Spain.
The Dip House - Popular for its wide selection of dips and spreads. Location: New York, USA.
Olio & Mayo - Celebrated for creative condiments and innovative flavors. Location: Toronto, Canada.
Taste Explosions - Offers a selection of international sauces and condiments. Location: Sydney, Australia.
Flavors from Home - Focuses on traditional condiments with a twist. Location: Cape Town, South Africa.