Duke's Mayonnaise
Duke's Mayonnaise is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 90 calories per serving. Recipe by FoodParables on YouTube.
Prep: 7 min | Cook: 6 min | Total: 18 min
Cost: $1.04 total, $0.13 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 large Egg Yolks (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Distilled White Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Water
- 1 cup Neutral Oil (Canola or Vegetable) (room temperature, mild flavor)
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Separate the yolks from the whites and let the yolks sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. Measure all vinegars, spices, salt, water, and oil before you start blending.
Time: PT5M
Combine Base Ingredients
In the tall narrow container, add the egg yolks, apple cider vinegar, distilled white vinegar, paprika, mustard powder, salt, and water. Give a quick stir to blend the dry ingredients into the yolks.
Time: PT2M
Emulsify with Oil
Place the immersion blender at the bottom of the container, turn it on, and let it run for about 10‑15 seconds before you start adding oil. Slowly drizzle the oil in a thin, steady stream while the blender runs, keeping the blade at the bottom until the mixture begins to thicken, then slowly lift the blender as the emulsion forms.
Time: PT5M
Finish and Store
Blend until the mayonnaise is thick, glossy, and reaches the desired consistency (about 1‑2 minutes total). Taste and adjust salt if needed. Transfer to a clean jar, seal, and refrigerate.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 90
- Protein
- 0g
- Carbohydrates
- 0g
- Fat
- 10g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free
Allergens: Eggs
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Apple Cider Vinegar: lemon juice
- Instead of Distilled White Vinegar: white wine vinegar
- Instead of Paprika: smoked paprika
- Instead of Mustard Powder: dry mustard
- Instead of Neutral Oil (Canola or Vegetable): light olive oil, grapeseed oil
Equipment Needed
- Immersion Blender
- Tall Narrow Container (e.g., 1‑quart jar)
- Measuring Spoons
- Spatula
- Small Bowl (for oil) (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Allow the yolk‑vinegar mixture to run for 10‑15 seconds before adding oil to start the emulsion
- Add oil in a slow, steady stream while the blender is at the bottom
- If the emulsion breaks, start with a fresh yolk and slowly whisk the broken mayo into it
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a neutral‑flavored oil for the classic Duke’s taste; olive oil will add a distinct flavor
- Room‑temperature ingredients blend more easily
- A tall, narrow container helps the oil stay in a thin stream and prevents splatter
Troubleshooting
Mayonnaise breaks (oil separates)
Start with a fresh egg yolk in a clean bowl, then slowly whisk the broken mayo into it while blending.
Mayonnaise is too thick
Whisk in a teaspoon of water or additional vinegar until the desired consistency is reached.
Mayonnaise is too thin
Continue blending while slowly adding more oil until it thickens.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
Freezer: Not recommended for freezing
Room temperature: Keep refrigerated; do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours
Make-Ahead Tips
- Make the mayo a day ahead to let flavors meld
- Keep the container sealed tightly in the fridge
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Duke's Mayonnaise in Southern American cuisine?
Duke's Mayonnaise, founded in 1917 in Greenville, South Carolina, became a staple in Southern cooking for its tangy flavor and lack of added sugar, distinguishing it from other commercial mayonnaises. It is celebrated for its use in classic Southern dishes like coleslaw, fried chicken, and deviled eggs.
What are the traditional regional variations of Duke's Mayonnaise in Southern United States cuisine?
While the original Duke's recipe is consistent, some Southern cooks add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat, or substitute part of the oil with peanut oil for a richer mouthfeel. However, the core ingredients—egg yolks, apple cider and white vinegars, and mustard powder—remain the same.
How is Duke's Mayonnaise traditionally served in Southern households?
In the South, Duke's is often served as a base for coleslaw, a spread on pulled‑pork sandwiches, a dip for fried foods, and mixed into potato salads. It is also used in recipes that call for a creamy, tangy binding agent, such as deviled eggs and tuna salads.
What occasions or celebrations is Duke's Mayonnaise traditionally associated with in Southern culture?
Duke's Mayonnaise appears at family barbecues, holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving and Christmas, and potluck events where salads and sandwich platters are served. Its reliable flavor makes it a go‑to condiment for festive meals across the South.
What makes Duke's Mayonnaise special or unique in American cuisine?
Duke's stands out for its distinctive tang from the combination of apple cider and distilled white vinegars, its lack of added sugar, and its smooth, buttery texture. These qualities give it a brighter flavor profile compared to many other commercial mayonnaises.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Duke's Mayonnaise at home?
Common errors include adding oil too quickly, using cold egg yolks, and over‑blending once the emulsion has formed. These mistakes can cause the mayo to break or become grainy.
Why does this Duke's Mayonnaise recipe use both apple cider vinegar and distilled white vinegar instead of just one?
The blend provides a balanced tang: apple cider vinegar adds fruitiness while distilled white vinegar contributes sharp acidity. Together they mimic the signature flavor of commercial Duke's mayonnaise.
Can I make this Duke's Mayonnaise ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, store the finished mayo in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Keep it sealed tightly and always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making Duke's Mayonnaise?
The mayo should be thick, glossy, and smooth, holding its shape when lifted with a spoon. It should have a pale yellow hue without any visible oil separation.
What does the YouTube channel FoodParables specialize in?
The YouTube channel FoodParables focuses on classic American comfort foods, detailed technique breakdowns, and recreating beloved store‑bought products with homemade versions, all presented with clear, step‑by‑step guidance.
How does the YouTube channel FoodParables' approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?
FoodParables emphasizes the science behind emulsions and flavor balance, often using everyday kitchen tools like immersion blenders, and provides cultural context for each dish, setting it apart from channels that focus solely on quick recipes without deeper explanations.
Last updated: September 3, 2026
