Cuisine Technique: Mayonnaise

How to prepare a mayonnaise by Le Cordon Bleu Master Chefs

In this series of videos, our chefs are sharing some of the classic French techniques we teach to more than 20,000 students on our programmes around the world each year. In the video below we show you how to prepare a mayonnaise.

Mayonnaise is referred to as cold emulsion and can be used to season or accompany a cold dish. Historically a mayonnaise is simply egg yolks, oil and vinegar, although in modern times mustard is often added.

Chef's tips: Gradually adding a little water may help to stabilise the emulsion

By adding other ingredients, mayonnaise can easily be transformed into derivative sauces such as rémoulade, tartare, cocktail or Andalouse just to name a few.

To make tartare sauce stir through chopped gherkins, onions, capers and parsley.

Make sure the oil is fully emulsified with the egg yolk before pouring in the next batch of oil. This will ensure the mayonnaise does not split. Start by adding small drops, and once you have a stable emulsion, you can add larger quantities.

Serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 min