Unlock the Secret: How to Make Garlic Aioli from Scratch at Home!

Garlic aioli is a creamy and flavorful condiment that elevates many dishes, from sandwiches to grilled vegetables. In this guide, you will learn how to make garlic aioli from scratch, a simple yet sophisticated sauce with roots in Mediterranean cuisine.

Making aioli from scratch may seem intimidating, but it’s a straightforward and rewarding process with the right ingredients and tools. Chef Mark Sandoval will guide you through each step, ensuring you can easily create this delicious sauce at home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Making garlic aioli at home offers several advantages:

• Fresh and Flavorful: Homemade aioli is fresher and more flavorful than store-bought versions.

• Simple Ingredients: You only need a few basic ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your kitchen.

• Versatile: Garlic aioli can be used in various dishes, adding a delicious garlicky note to everything from fries to fish.

• Customizable: You can adjust the flavors to suit your taste, whether you like them extra garlicky or with a hint of lemon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Below is a table of the ingredients you’ll need to make garlic aioli. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and texture.

Ingredient	Description
Minced garlic	Freshly minced garlic adds a robust and aromatic flavor.
Fresh egg yolks	Provide the base for the emulsion, making the aioli creamy.
Water	Helps in the emulsification process.
Kosher salt	Enhances the flavors and stabilizes the emulsion.
Blended oil	A mix of 75% canola oil and 25% extra virgin olive oil provides a balanced flavor and texture.
Lemon juice	Adds a fresh, tangy taste and helps stabilize the aioli.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools makes the process of making garlic aioli much easier. Here’s a table of the tools you’ll need:

Tool	Description
Cutting Board	For mincing garlic and other prep work.
Chef Knife	Essential for finely mincing garlic.
Kitchen Towel	To keep your work area clean and dry.
Mixing Bowl	For combining and whisking ingredients.
Whisk	A key tool for emulsifying the ingredients into a smooth aioli.
Airtight Storage Container	This is for storing the finished aioli in the refrigerator.

Step-By-Step Garlic Aioli Instructions – VIDEO

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making garlic aioli from scratch.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools.
• Mince the garlic finely using a chef’s knife on a cutting board.
• Separate the egg yolks from the whites, keeping the yolks in a mixing bowl.
• Measure the water, kosher salt, blended oil, and lemon juice.

Step 2: Mix the Base

• Add the minced garlic to the mixing bowl with the egg yolks.
• Add a pinch of kosher salt and a small amount of water.
• Whisk the mixture until it’s well combined and slightly frothy.
• This will be the base of your aioli.

Step 3: Emulsify the Aioli

• While continuously whisking, slowly add the blended oil in a thin stream.
• It is crucial to add the oil gradually to ensure it emulsifies properly with the egg yolks. If you add the oil too quickly, the mixture might split.
• Keep whisking vigorously until the aioli thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice

• Add lemon juice to taste once the oil is fully incorporated and the aioli has thickened.
• Whisk again to combine.
• The lemon juice will add a tangy flavor and help stabilize the mixture.

Step 5: Season and Store

• Taste the aioli and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if needed.
• Transfer the aioli to an airtight storage container and refrigerate until ready to use.
• Homemade garlic aioli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Tips, Tricks, and Storage Options

Making garlic aioli from scratch can be a breeze with the right techniques and knowledge. Here are some valuable tips, clever tricks, and practical storage options to ensure your homemade aioli turns out perfect every time.

Tips

Tip	Description
Room Temperature Ingredients	Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This helps with the emulsification process.
Slow Oil Addition	Add the oil slowly to prevent the aioli from splitting.
Consistency Adjustment	If your aioli is too thick, whisk in a little water or lemon juice to achieve the desired consistency.

Tricks

Trick	Description
Saving Split Aioli	If your aioli splits, don’t worry! You can save it by whisking in a small amount of water or another egg yolk to bring it back together.
Flavor Variations	Experiment with different oils or add herbs and spices to

Storage Options

Storage Option	Description
Refrigeration	Store the garlic aioli in an airtight container. It will keep for up to one week.
Serving Suggestions	Use garlic aioli as a dip for fries, a spread for sandwiches, or a sauce for grilled meats and vegetables.

Conclusion

Making garlic aioli from scratch is a rewarding experience that results in a rich, flavorful sauce you can use in various dishes. With fresh ingredients and a little bit of whisking, you can create a delicious aioli that far surpasses anything you can buy in the store. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see how easy and satisfying homemade garlic aioli can be.

We hope you enjoyed learning how to make garlic aioli from scratch! Share your aioli creations on social media with the hashtag #CookWithCem, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to check out our other recipes and tips for more culinary inspiration.

Thank you for reading! Be sure to check back soon for more informative and exciting articles.

Happy cooking!

Cem

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use only extra virgin olive oil?

A: Using only extra virgin olive oil can produce a strong flavor. The blend of canola and extra virgin olive oil helps balance the taste and provides a more pleasant texture.

Q2: What if my aioli is too thick?

A: If your aioli is too thick, whisk in a little water or lemon juice to achieve the desired consistency. This will help thin out the mixture without affecting the flavor too much.

Q3: Can I add other flavors to the aioli?

A: Yes, you can experiment with adding herbs, spices, or other flavorings to customize your aioli. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can add a unique twist to the traditional recipe.

Q4: How long will homemade aioli last?

A: Homemade aioli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing other odors.

Q5: Is it safe to eat raw egg yolks in aioli?

A: Yes, but ensure the eggs are fresh and high-quality. If you have concerns about consuming raw eggs, you can use pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Q6: Can I make aioli without a whisk?

A: A whisk is recommended for the best results, but you can also use an immersion blender or food processor. These tools can help emulsify the ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Q7: My aioli split. Can I fix it?

A: Yes, you can fix split aioli by whisking in a small amount of water or another egg yolk. This helps bring the mixture back together and restores its creamy texture.

Q8: What dishes pair well with garlic aioli?

A: Garlic aioli is great with roasted vegetables, sandwiches, grilled meats, and as a dip for fries. It also works well as a spread on burgers or as a dressing for salads.

Q9: Can I make aioli in advance?

A: Yes, you can make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This can help save time if you plan to use it for a meal or a gathering.

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