Homemade Chipotle Lime Mayonnaise (Printable)

Creamy chipotle lime mayo adds tangy, smoky flavor to tacos, sandwiches, and grilled vegetables.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
02 - 1 cup neutral oil (canola, sunflower, or light olive oil)
03 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
04 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
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 the chipotle can)
09 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
10 - Zest of 1 lime

# Directions:

01 - In a medium mixing bowl, combine egg yolk, Dijon mustard, fresh lime juice, white wine vinegar, and sea salt. Whisk together until smooth, ensuring all components are fully integrated.
02 - While continuously whisking, gradually incorporate the neutral oil, beginning with drops and proceeding to a slow, steady stream. Continue until the mixture emulsifies and achieves a thick texture.
03 - Add finely chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, and lime zest to the emulsified mixture. Whisk until evenly distributed throughout.
04 - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional lime juice or sea salt, as desired for balance.
05 - Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes prior to serving to allow flavors to meld.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • This chipotle lime mayonnaise brings smoky, tangy magic to even the simplest meals—try it on roasted veggies or warm tortillas.
  • It became my favorite because just a spoonful transforms taco night into something unexpectedly special.
02 -
  • Trying to rush the oil addition once ruined my mayo—always drizzle slowly or risk splitting the sauce.
  • Adding lime zest last (and finely!) makes the aroma pop in a way I never expected until I tried it.
03 -
  • If the mayonnaise splits, whisk in an extra yolk in a separate bowl and slowly add the broken mayo to rescue it.
  • A little extra zest right before serving brings surprising freshness to every bite.
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