Aioli Recipe

Imagine a velvety, creamy sauce that effortlessly takes a recipe from ordinary to incredible with just a single dollop. Enter aioli, a culinary wonder that captivates taste buds and adds a touch of indulgence to any meal. In this blog post, we dive into the fascinating world of aioli, exploring its rich history, diverse variations, and mouthwatering applications that will have you reaching for the nearest slice of bread to savour every last drop. Get ready to unlock the secrets behind this irresistible sauce and discover how aioli can create culinary magic, turning every bite into a flavour-packed adventure.

dipping crouton in aioli sauce

How Many Types of Aioli?

Aioli, a beloved sauce with Mediterranean origins, has evolved into a variety of delicious iterations across different culinary traditions. From the classic allioli (garlic and oil) to the unique regional variations found in Spain and Southern France, aioli showcases its versatility by adapting to local flavours and ingredients while retaining its creamy, garlic-infused essence.

In Spain, particularly in Catalonia, aioli takes on a luxurious and silky texture. This variation, known as allioli or aïoli in Spanish, is traditionally made by emulsifying garlic, olive oil, and egg yolks. The absence of mustard or lemon juice allows the full flavour of the garlic to shine through, resulting in a rich and smooth sauce that perfectly complements seafood, grilled meats, and patatas bravas.

Meanwhile, in Southern France, the Provençal aioli exhibits a vibrant and colourful twist. This regional specialty combines the classic ali olio base with the addition of egg yolks, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and sometimes saffron for a unique touch. Provençal aioli is renowned for its vibrant yellow hue and delightful tang, making it an exquisite accompaniment to fresh vegetables, boiled eggs, and the famous seafood stew, bouillabaisse.

These regional variations of aioli showcase the versatility of this beloved sauce. Whether you’re savouring the robustness of ali olio, indulging in the creamy perfection of Spanish allioli, or delighting in the tangy Provençal twist, aioli adds depth and flavour to an array of dishes, capturing the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in every mouthwatering bite. So, explore the different variations of aioli, embrace the flavours that resonate with you, and let this creamy culinary delight elevate your dining experience to new heights.

egg yolk being mixed with garlic

Tips & Tricks

  • Crush, blend or grind the garlic submerged in the lemon juice, this nums that harsh raw garlic flavour into something more mellow.
  • Optionally use saffron to add colour and another dimension of flavour.
  • If you choose to use a blender, liquidizer or something with mechanical force then go for a light olive oil instead of an extra virgin olive oil.  The extra virgin olive oil will go bitter if you blend it hard.
  • If you don’t have a blender you can easily make this with a bowl and a whisk (and it’s better because you can use extra virgin olive oil)
aioli being made in a mortar and pestle

Aioli Recipe

Aioli Recipe

Prepare to indulge your taste buds with a sauce that exudes richness and flavour like no other—aioli. In this recipe, we'll guide you through creating a luscious and creamy aioli that will elevate your culinary creations to new heights.

Aioli, with its origins rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, is a versatile sauce that combines the boldness of garlic with the smoothness of mayonnaise.

Join us as we unveil the secrets to achieving aioli perfection, sharing a step-by-step guide that will have you creating your own batch in no time. Whether you're spreading it on sandwiches, or serving it alongside chicken this aioli recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Get ready to savour the creamy perfection and elevated flavours that aioli brings to the table. So, grab your whisk and get ready to experience the culinary magic of homemade aioli—it's time to take your meals to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • * 1 egg yolk
  • * 4 crushed or minced garlic cloves
  • * 200ml / 7 oz of olive oil (or other if you're using blender etc)
  • * 1-2 teaspoons lemon juice (more to taste at the end)
  • * Pinch of saffron (optional)
  • * Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Add the lemon juice, saffron, whole garlic and a light pinch of salt, to the bowl of your mortar and pestle. Grind it into a paste.
  2. Then add the egg yolk, mix all that together and start to stream in your olive oil.
  3. Mix until emulsified and add a splash of water or lemon juice if it’s too thick.


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