Aioli (Garlic Mayonnaise)

Experience the luxurious flavor combination of aioli, a garlic-infused mayonnaise, which the Belgians use as a dip for their beloved homemade French fries, known as “frites.” In Belgium, ketchup takes a backseat to seasoned mayonnaises like aioli, and once you’ve savored this delectable pairing, you may never reach for ketchup again. This recipe serves 8 and offers a delightful way to enhance your fries and many other dishes.

Serves 8 

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped, or pushed through a press
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Juice of 1 lemon (about ¼ cup), divided
• 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS: 

1. Start by mashing together the finely chopped garlic and salt in a large mixing bowl.
2. To stabilize your mixing bowl while you work, wet a cloth towel, wring it out, fold it in half, and place it on a work surface. Set the mixing bowl on the towel.
3. In the mixing bowl with the garlic and salt, add the egg yolks, Dijon mustard, and 2 teaspoons of the lemon juice.
4. Begin the whisking process by very gradually whisking in approximately one-fourth (¼) of the olive oil into the yolk mixture. To help incorporate the oil, add a few drops of room-temperature water.
5. Continue to whisk vigorously while slowly adding the remaining olive oil in a slow, steady stream. The gradual addition of oil while whisking is crucial to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
6. Season the aioli to taste with the remaining lemon juice, adjusting the flavor to your preference.

USES:

Aioli (Garlic Mayonnaise) is a versatile condiment that can be used in various ways to enhance your dishes with its rich garlic flavor. Here are some popular uses:

• French Fries: Dip homemade or store-bought French fries, or “frites,” into aioli for a Belgian-inspired treat.
• Burgers and Sandwiches: Spread aioli on burgers, sandwiches, and wraps to add a creamy and garlicky kick.
• Seafood: Serve aioli as a dipping sauce for seafood like shrimp, crab, or calamari.
• Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle aioli over roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or cauliflower.
• Grilled Meats: Use it as a flavorful condiment for grilled meats such as steak, chicken, or lamb.
• Potato Salad: Mix aioli into potato salad for a creamy and garlic-infused dressing.
• Salad Dressing: Thin it out with a bit of water or vinegar to create a creamy salad dressing for mixed greens or potato salad.
• Taco Topping: Add a dollop of aioli to your tacos for a zesty and creamy finish.
• Egg Dishes: Enhance the flavor of scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas by incorporating aioli.
• Vegetable Platters: Serve aioli as a dip for fresh vegetable platters, including carrots, celery, and bell pepper strips.
• Marinade: Use aioli as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or tofu before grilling or roasting.
• Sauce for Grilled Vegetables: Brush aioli onto grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
• Stuffed Tomatoes: Use aioli as a filling or topping for stuffed tomatoes.
• Gourmet Hot Dogs: Elevate your hot dogs by spreading aioli on the bun before adding the sausage and toppings.
• Croquettes: Serve aioli as a dipping sauce for croquettes or other fried snacks.

Aioli’s bold and garlicky flavor profile makes it a beloved condiment that can enhance a wide range of dishes. Experiment with its various uses to discover your favorite combinations and enjoy the savory richness it brings to your meals.