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This spicy chipotle mayo brings smoky heat and creamy richness to any dish it touches. After discovering how simple it is to make, I've permanently retired store-bought spicy mayo from my refrigerator. The balance of heat, tang, and creaminess makes this a versatile condiment that elevates everything from basic sandwiches to gourmet burgers.
I first created this chipotle mayo for a taco night with friends, and it became an instant hit. Now it's requested at every gathering, and I always keep a batch in my refrigerator for last minute meal upgrades.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base - choose a quality brand for best results
- Sour cream: Adds tanginess and balances the heat while creating a lighter texture
- Chipotle peppers in adobo: Deliver smoky heat and authentic flavor - look for whole peppers for the best texture
- Adobo sauce: From the canned peppers intensifies the smoky flavor without adding extra peppers
- Fresh lime juice: Brightens the flavor and cuts through the richness - use freshly squeezed for best results
- Smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky notes even further - select Spanish paprika for authentic flavor
- Granulated garlic: Adds depth without overpowering - use fresh garlic if you prefer a more pungent flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add mayonnaise, sour cream, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, lime juice, smoked paprika, and granulated garlic to a small bowl. Make sure to drain excess adobo sauce from the peppers before adding them to control the moisture level.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Submerge an immersion blender completely in the mixture before turning it on to prevent splashing. Pulse several times on low speed until reaching your desired consistency. For a completely smooth sauce, blend for about 30 seconds. For a more textured sauce with visible pepper flecks, pulse just a few times.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the chipotle mayo to rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and develop fully. The mayo will taste noticeably better after this resting period.
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The chipotle peppers are truly the star ingredient here. I discovered their transformative power years ago when trying to recreate a restaurant sauce, and now I always keep a can in my pantry. Just one or two peppers can completely transform an ordinary mayo into something extraordinary.
Heat Level Adjustments
The beauty of homemade chipotle mayo is the ability to control exactly how spicy it becomes. For a mild version, start with just one pepper and a teaspoon of adobo sauce, then taste and adjust. Medium heat usually requires two peppers, while true heat lovers can use three or more. Remember that the spiciness will intensify slightly as the mayo rests, so err on the side of caution if you're sensitive to heat.
Storage Information
This chipotle mayo keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors actually continue to develop over the first few days, making it an ideal make ahead condiment. I recommend storing it in a glass jar with a tight fitting lid rather than plastic containers, as the adobo sauce can stain plastic and sometimes impart a flavor. Never freeze this mayo as it will separate and develop an unpleasant texture upon thawing.
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Creative Serving Ideas
While this chipotle mayo shines on burgers and sandwiches, its versatility extends much further. Try it as a dipping sauce for sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables, drizzled over fish tacos, or as a zesty base for coleslaw. For an impressive appetizer, thin the mayo slightly with extra lime juice and drizzle it over grilled corn or elote. It also makes an excellent binding agent for tuna or chicken salad, adding smoky depth to these classics.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Start with 1 or 2 chipotle peppers and taste before adding more. This allows you to control the heat to your preference.
- → Can I make this without an immersion blender?
Yes, you can use a standard blender, food processor, or finely chop the peppers by hand and stir the mixture thoroughly.
- → How long should I let it rest?
Let the mayo rest for one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together for the best taste.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
Use it as a spread for burgers and sandwiches, or as a dip for sweet potato fries, French fries, or vegetable sticks.
- → How should I store chipotle mayo?
Store the mayo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.