Homemade Chipotle Lime Mayonnaise (Printable Version)

Smoky chipotle and zesty lime create a creamy spread, ideal for elevating tacos, sandwiches, or grilled vegetables.

# What You Need:

→ Base

01 - 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
02 - 1 cup neutral oil, such as canola, sunflower, or light olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
04 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, plus more to taste
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

# Steps:

01 - In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolk, Dijon mustard, lime juice, white wine vinegar, and sea salt until the mixture is homogeneous and glossy.
02 - While continuously whisking, slowly add the neutral oil a few drops at a time until the mixture begins to emulsify and thicken. Gradually increase to a slow, steady stream once a stable emulsion forms, whisking vigorously until all oil is incorporated and mixture is thick and creamy.
03 - Fold in finely chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, and lime zest. Whisk until evenly blended.
04 - Taste and adjust lime juice or sea salt if desired for balance.
05 - Transfer mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This mayo packs a zesty punch that’s almost impossible not to sneak a spoonful of before serving.
  • It’s my go-to for instantly leveling up tacos, leftover veggies, or even simple sandwiches when I need a little spark.
02 -
  • Pouring the oil too fast is the fastest way to make your mayo separate – patience really pays off here.
  • I only truly understood how much a little extra lime zest lifts the flavor after trying it both ways – don’t hold back.
03 -
  • Let the mayo rest in the fridge before serving; the chipotle heat mellows and the flavors become more complex.
  • Using a microplane for lime zest and garlic ensures everything blends in seamlessly for a velvety finish.
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