A Hand Blender (or immersion blender) is one of the easiest and most reliable tools for making homemade mayonnaise. Unlike mixing by hand or using a traditional blender, a hand blender quickly emulsifies the oil and eggs, creating a smooth, thick mayonnaise in just minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 whole egg (room temperature)

• 1 cup (240 ml) neutral oil (such as canola, sunflower, or light olive oil)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds flavor and helps emulsify)

• Salt to taste

Equipment

• hand blender (immersion blender)

• Tall, narrow container (a jar or the blender beaker works best)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Container

• Place the egg, mustard, lemon juice (or vinegar), and salt into the tall container.

• Pour the oil in last so it sits on top of the other ingredients.

Step 2: Position the Hand Blender

• Place the hand blender at the bottom of the container.

• Ensure the blade is fully submerged beneath the egg.

Step 3: Blend Without Moving at First

• Switch on the blender and keep it still for the first 10–15 seconds.

• You’ll see the mixture begin to thicken at the bottom as the emulsion forms.

Step 4: Slowly Raise the Blender

• Once the bottom has turned creamy, slowly lift the blender upwards.

• Continue blending until all the oil is incorporated and you have thick, smooth mayonnaise.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

• Taste and add extra salt, lemon juice, or mustard if needed.

• Blend briefly again to combine.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs and oil may prevent emulsification.

• Tall Container: Keeps ingredients together for faster blending.

• Neutral Oil: Strong oils (like extra virgin olive oil) can make mayo bitter.

• Storage: Keep in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Variations

• Garlic Mayonnaise (Aioli): Add a clove of garlic before blending.

• Herb Mayonnaise: Blend in parsley, dill, or basil at the end.

• Spicy Mayo: Stir in chili paste, sriracha, or cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

Making mayonnaise with a hand blender is fast, easy, and foolproof. By layering the ingredients, blending from the bottom up, and using room temperature components, you can create creamy homemade mayonnaise in under 5 minutes. With endless flavor variations, it’s a versatile recipe every kitchen should master.