Mayonnaise, a seemingly staple ingredient that lurks in the back of the fridge until the need for an egg salad recipe or a late-night turkey sandwich arises. It is versatile, adding just the right consistency to a variety of dishes, and binding ingredients together in one creamy swoop. But when it’s just you and the jar, faced with the multitude of options on the supermarket shelves, how do you determine which jar holds the best mayonnaise?
Finding the best mayo: a taste test
I recently gathered a group of fellow food lovers for a rigorous taste test. We amassed 16 jars of mayonnaise, ranging from industry giant Hellmann’s to organic upstart brands, and even a vegan option. We tasted them blind, on simple saltine crackers, to let their flavor and texture shine through.
To say the least, the results were surprising. Some of the entrants were instantly identifiable, their unique features standing out. For instance, Hellmann’s, with its omnipresent tang and silky texture, stood out. However, others were a revelation, proving that top ‘shelf presence’ does not necessarily equate with top taste.
The surprise wafted in pickles and eggs
Our panel’s ultimate choice? It was a unanimous decision for a relative newcomer: Sir Kensington’s mayonnaise. One taster described it as having a “slightly sweet, almost buttery flavor” which was “rounded off by just the right tang,” which helped to balance the richness. Another appreciation came from the merest hint of garlic, which added an additional layer of depth.
The most interesting revelation of the day had to do with the ingredients other than the basic egg, oil, and vinegar. Several mayonnaises in the lineup included small amounts of additional flavorings, such as mustard, garlic, and onion. These were, in general, a hit with the panel, adding a slight complexity to the flavor profile that set them apart from the more straightforward options.
One notable exception was the inclusion of diced pickles and hard-boiled eggs. Yes, you read correctly, pickles and eggs! The inclusion of these ingredients resulted in a curious, divisive flavor profile. Some tasters appreciated the addition, saying it added a different but pleasant tang. Others argued it took from the traditional mayo profile and leaned towards a premature egg salad.
From the blind taste test, we learned that ‘big brands’ are not always the best choice, and sometimes, it’s the underdogs or smaller, specialty brands that provide a taste that stands out, the mayonnaise that becomes the ideal fridge companion. Next time you reach for that jar of mayo, think: ‘Might there be a different brand out there waiting to surprise my taste buds?’.
Kate Robinson is a culinary writer and food critic with a deep passion for gastronomy and a keen palate that appreciates flavors from around the world. At 31 years old, Kate’s background is as rich and diverse as her taste in food. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of America, she has worked in various roles within the food industry, from a line cook in bustling New York City restaurants to a food stylist for culinary magazines.
Her transition into writing was driven by a desire to share her love for food and cooking with a wider audience. Now, as a prominent contributor to a leading online food and gastronomy news platform, Kate explores a wide array of topics, including restaurant reviews, recipe development, and the latest trends in food and dining.
Kate’s writing is distinguished by her ability to transport readers to the heart of the dining experience, whether she’s describing the subtle notes of a rare wine or the vibrant atmosphere of a street food market in Southeast Asia. Her reviews are honest and insightful, offering readers a comprehensive guide to the world’s culinary delights.
Beyond reviews, Kate is passionate about sustainable eating practices and often features articles on farm-to-table dining, organic farming, and ethical food sourcing. Her features on international cuisines and culinary traditions aim not only to educate her audience but also to inspire them to explore new flavors and cooking techniques.
Kate’s engaging writing style, combined with her extensive knowledge of the culinary world, has made her a favorite among food lovers. Whether her readers are experienced chefs or home cooks looking to broaden their culinary horizons, Kate provides valuable insights and inspiration to elevate their food experiences.
In addition to her writing, Kate regularly hosts online cooking classes and workshops, where she shares her expertise and enthusiasm for cooking with participants eager to learn. Her commitment to exploring and celebrating the world of food has established her as a respected voice in the gastronomy category, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the art and culture of food.
