To make homemade mayonnaise, you need a few simple ingredients and a method to emulsify them properly. Here's a reliable and straightforward way to make mayo:

Ingredients

• 1 large egg (or 2 egg yolks)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider, white, or lemon juice)
• 1 cup neutral-flavored oil (like light olive oil, grapeseed, avocado, or sunflower oil)
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: garlic, herbs, sugar, or additional lemon juice for flavor adjustments

Equipment

• Immersion blender with a tall container, or
• Food processor, or
• Whisk and a large bowl (for hand whisking)

Steps Using an Immersion Blender (Recommended for Ease and Consistency)

1. In a tall container or jar, combine the egg, mustard, vinegar, and salt. Let the mixture settle for about 15 seconds after adding the oil.
2. Pour the oil over the top without mixing.
3. Insert the immersion blender into the bottom of the container and blend without moving it for about 10-20 seconds until the mixture starts to emulsify and thicken.
4. Slowly lift and tilt the blender to incorporate the rest of the oil, blending until the mayonnaise is thick and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lemon juice, or vinegar as desired.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week (or up to 3 weeks in some recipes).

Alternative Method Using a Food Processor or Whisk

• Add the egg, mustard, vinegar, and salt to the food processor bowl or a bowl for whisking.
• Start processing or whisking to combine.
• Very slowly drizzle the oil in tiny drops at first, then in a slow, steady stream as the mixture thickens, whisking vigorously to emulsify.
• Continue until all the oil is incorporated and the mayo is thick and creamy.
• Adjust seasoning to taste.

Tips

• Adding the oil very slowly at the beginning is crucial to prevent the mixture from breaking and becoming oily.
• Use room temperature ingredients for best emulsification.
• If the mayo gets too warm during blending, chill it briefly to help it thicken.
• Homemade mayo can be customized with garlic, herbs, or spices for different flavors.

This method yields a rich, creamy mayonnaise perfect for salads, sandwiches, and sauces