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I first discovered spicy mayo when I was trying to recreate my favorite sushi restaurant experience at home. I was amazed at how something so simple could be so addictive. This recipe combines creamy mayonnaise with the perfect amount of heat from sriracha, balanced with a touch of rice vinegar for brightness. The garlic powder adds depth, while the red pepper flakes give it that beautiful color and extra kick. What I love most is how customizable it is - you can make it mild for the kids or add extra sriracha for those who love serious heat. The texture is silky smooth, and it coats everything perfectly. Every time I make a batch, I'm reminded of why this has become such a staple in my kitchen. It's restaurant-quality flavor made in minutes with ingredients I always have on hand.
Why I love this recipe
What I absolutely love about this spicy mayo is how it transforms ordinary meals into something special. It's that perfect balance of creamy and spicy that makes your taste buds dance. The recipe is so forgiving - if you want it spicier, add more sriracha; if you want it milder, use less. I love that I can whip it up in under 5 minutes whenever I need it. Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade spicy mayo tastes fresh and vibrant, and I know exactly what's in it. The way the red pepper flakes suspend in the creamy base creates this beautiful marbled effect that looks as good as it tastes. It's become my secret weapon for making everything from simple sandwiches to elaborate dinner parties feel more special. My friends always ask for the recipe, and I love how surprised they are that something so delicious is so easy to make.
What You Need From Your Kitchen
- Mayonnaise: Use as the creamy base for the sauce
- Sriracha sauce: Blend with mayo for perfect spicy kick
- Rice vinegar: Add for brightness and balance
- Garlic powder: Mix in for savory depth
- Red pepper flakes: Sprinkle for color and extra heat
- Sesame oil: Drizzle for authentic Asian flavor
Let's Make These Together
- Combine base ingredients
- Start by adding mayonnaise to your mixing bowl, then incorporate sriracha sauce gradually while whisking to ensure smooth consistency.
- Season the mixture
- Add rice vinegar for brightness, garlic powder for depth, and red pepper flakes for heat and visual appeal.
- Whisk until smooth
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until the sauce is completely smooth and the red pepper flakes are evenly distributed throughout.
- Add finishing touches
- Drizzle in sesame oil and gently fold it in to add that authentic Asian restaurant flavor that makes this sauce special.
- Taste and perfect
- Sample the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed, then let it rest for 10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Switch Things Up
The first time I made this sauce, I was trying to recreate that amazing spicy mayo from my favorite sushi restaurant. I was skeptical that something so simple could taste so good, but wow, was I wrong! I started with just a basic mayo and sriracha mix, but then I discovered that adding just a tiny bit of rice vinegar and sesame oil made all the difference. Now I make a batch every week and keep it in my fridge. My family goes through it so fast - they put it on everything from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables. It's become our go-to condiment, and I love how I can make it exactly as spicy as we like it.
Perfect Pairings
This spicy mayo pairs beautifully with so many dishes! It's classic with sushi rolls and poke bowls, but don't stop there. Try it as a dipping sauce for tempura vegetables, drizzled over grilled salmon, or spread on turkey sandwiches. It's also fantastic with roasted sweet potato fries, chicken tenders, or even as a creamy dressing for Asian-inspired salads. The possibilities are endless!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How spicy is this sauce?
The heat level is moderate and customizable. Start with 2 tablespoons of sriracha and adjust to your preference. You can make it milder by using less sriracha or spicier by adding more.
- → How long does homemade spicy mayo last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this sauce will keep for up to one week. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a day.
- → Can I make this sauce without sesame oil?
Yes, you can omit the sesame oil if you don't have it, but it adds an authentic Asian flavor that really elevates the sauce. You could substitute with a tiny bit of olive oil if needed.
- → What can I use instead of sriracha?
You can substitute sriracha with other hot sauces like chili garlic sauce, gochujang mixed with a little honey, or even hot sauce mixed with a pinch of sugar.
- → Why does my sauce look different than the picture?
The color depends on the brand of sriracha used and the amount of red pepper flakes. Some srirachas are more orange while others are more red. The important thing is the smooth, creamy texture.
Conclusion
This spicy mayo sauce is the perfect condiment to elevate any meal. It's creamy, spicy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you're making sushi at home or just want to jazz up your sandwiches, this sauce delivers every time. The best part is you can adjust the heat level to your preference. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week and use it on everything from grilled vegetables to chicken wings.