Description
This Chipotle Mayo is a creamy, smoky Mexican-inspired sauce that adds a spicy kick to any dish. Perfect as a dip, spread, or dressing, it combines the smoothness of mayonnaise with the bold flavors of chipotle and smoky paprika, making it a versatile condiment that enhances sandwiches, tacos, grilled meats, and more.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or sour cream, vegan mayo “Veganaise” or silken tofu for a vegan alternative)
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1-2 teaspoons lime juice (to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon ground chipotle powder or 1 chipotle pepper from a can blended with the mayo
- 1-3 teaspoons smoky adobo sauce from the chipotle pepper can (optional, start conservatively)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: If using mayonnaise or Veganaise, place all the ingredients including mayo, water, lime juice, salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, and chipotle powder (or blended chipotle pepper/adobo sauce) in a small bowl.
- Whisk Smooth: Whisk the mixture thoroughly using a fork or small whisk until the sauce is perfectly smooth and all the ingredients are well incorporated. For a vegan version with silken tofu, blend all ingredients until creamy.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample the sauce, then adjust salt, lime, and chipotle heat according to your preference, aiming for a balance of slight saltiness and gentle spiciness.
- Store Properly: Transfer the chipotle mayo into a small jar or a squeeze bottle for easy dispensing. Refrigerate the sauce to keep it fresh.
- Keep Fresh: The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making it a convenient staple condiment for various dishes.
Notes
- For a vegan alternative, use vegan mayo such as Veganaise or blend silken tofu with the seasonings until creamy.
- Be conservative at first with the chipotle powder or adobo sauce, as the heat level can vary and you can always add more.
- This sauce works well as a dip, sandwich spread, or drizzle over tacos and grilled meats.
- The lime juice brightens the smoky flavors and adds a fresh tang.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican