Sriracha Mayo
What Is Sriracha Mayo?
Sriracha Mayo is a flavorful blend of creamy mayonnaise and spicy Sriracha sauce, creating a condiment that’s both spicy and rich. It has gained immense popularity as a versatile sauce, adding a kick of heat and a smooth texture to many dishes. The sauce is a simple yet delicious combination that offers the perfect balance between the heat of Sriracha and the creaminess of mayo, making it a favorite for those who love bold flavors.
Origin:
While Sriracha sauce hails from Thailand, Sriracha Mayo has become a global sensation, especially in the U.S. and Japan, where it’s often used in sushi rolls, burgers, and as a dipping sauce.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base provides a rich, smooth texture. It’s high in healthy fats that aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Sriracha Sauce: Adds a spicy, garlicky flavour. Sriracha is made from chilli peppers, offering a good dose of capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and enhance endorphin release.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy kick, balancing out the heat and creaminess. It’s also rich in vitamin C, supporting immune health.
- Garlic (optional): Freshly minced garlic can enhance the sauce’s flavour, providing additional depth and a spicy undertone.
Pros and Cons of Sriracha Mayo
Pros:
- Versatile: Great as a dipping sauce, spread, or dressing, making it a multipurpose condiment.
- Quick and Easy: Requires minimal ingredients and can be made in just a few minutes.
- Bold Flavor: Combines the creaminess of mayo with the spicy kick of Sriracha, perfect for those who love bold tastes.
- Customizable: The heat level can be easily adjusted by varying the amount of Sriracha.
Cons:
- High in Calories: Both mayonnaise and Sriracha contain calories, so it’s not ideal for low-calorie diets.
- Contains Sugar: Sriracha has added sugar, which might be a concern for those monitoring their sugar intake.
- Not Suitable for Everyone: Mayonnaise contains eggs, making it unsuitable for vegans and people with egg allergies unless vegan mayo is used.
Popular Variations of Sriracha Mayo
- Classic Sriracha Mayo: The basic mix of mayonnaise and Sriracha sauce.
- Garlic Sriracha Mayo: Adds minced garlic for an extra punch of flavour.
- Honey Sriracha Mayo: A sweet twist with honey, offering a balanced spicy-sweet flavour.
- Vegan Sriracha Mayo: Uses vegan mayonnaise, making it egg-free and suitable for plant-based diets.
- Cilantro Sriracha Mayo: Includes fresh cilantro for a herby, zesty touch.
How to Use Sriracha Mayo
- Dipping Sauce: Perfect for fries, sweet potato fries, chicken tenders, and sushi.
- Burger Spread: Adds a spicy kick to burgers, sandwiches, and wraps.
- Sushi Rolls: Commonly used in sushi, especially spicy tuna rolls and California rolls.
- Taco Topping: A flavorful addition to fish tacos, shrimp tacos, and chicken tacos.
- Salad Dressing: Mix with a little extra lemon juice or vinegar to create a spicy, creamy salad dressing.
Preparation Time and Serving Size
- Preparation Time: Takes about 5 minutes to prepare.
- Serving Size: A standard recipe yields about 1 cup, enough for 8-10 servings.
Homemade Sriracha Mayo Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth and well combined.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste and adjust the level of Sriracha for spiciness, and add more lemon juice for tanginess if desired.
- Serve: Use immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon):
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Sugar: 0.5g
Health Benefits of Sriracha Mayo
- Boosts Metabolism: The capsaicin in Sriracha can help boost metabolism and aid in weight loss efforts.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Mayonnaise provides monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.
- Antioxidant Properties: Garlic and lemon juice add antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress(read more).
- Enhances Flavor Without Excess Salt: Adds a bold flavour to dishes without the need for extra salt.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store Sriracha Mayo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Stir Before Using: The ingredients may separate slightly over time, so give it a quick stir before each use.
- Do Not Freeze: Freezing may cause the mayo to separate and lose its creamy texture.
Conclusion
Sriracha Mayo is a must-have condiment for anyone who loves a combination of creamy and spicy flavours. Its simple yet impactful taste enhances a wide variety of dishes, from sushi rolls to burgers and fries. Making it at home allows for customization and ensures a fresher, healthier option compared to store-bought versions. Whether you prefer it mild or extra hot, Sriracha Mayo is the perfect addition to your kitchen, ready to elevate any meal with its bold, tangy kick.
