Aioli: The Creamy Counterpart to Spicy Bravas (Recipe Included!)
Aioli, a garlic-infused mayonnaise, is a staple in Spanish cuisine, particularly when paired with patatas bravas. While purists debate its inclusion in authentic bravas, most Spanish bars serve this creamy delight alongside the spicy sauce, offering a refreshing contrast. This simple recipe will allow you to bring a taste of Spain into your own kitchen.
Classic Aioli Recipe
This recipe creates a traditional aioli with a rich garlic flavor. It’s best made with a mortar and pestle for the most authentic texture, but a food processor works perfectly well too.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 cup olive oil, extra virgin
- 1/4 cup sunflower oil (or another neutral oil)
Prep & Cook Time:
10-15 minutes
Servings:
About 1 cup
Instructions:
- If using a mortar and pestle, crush the garlic and salt into a paste. If using a food processor, pulse until finely minced.
- Add the egg yolk and lemon juice to the garlic mixture and mix well (either with the pestle or by pulsing in the processor).
- Very slowly, start adding the olive oil, drop by drop, while constantly mixing (or with the processor running). This is crucial to emulsify the mixture and prevent it from splitting.
- Once the mixture starts to thicken, you can gradually increase the rate at which you add the remaining olive and sunflower oil, continuing to mix.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice as needed.
Tips & Variations:
- For a smoother aioli, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Add a pinch of pimentón (smoked paprika) for a hint of smokiness.
Nutritional Info (approximate per tablespoon):
Calories: 100, Fat: 11g, Carbs: 0g, Protein: 0g
Quick Aioli Recipe (Using Mayonnaise)
This is a faster and simpler version of aioli, perfect for when you are short on time. It relies on store-bought mayonnaise as a base.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup store-bought mayonnaise
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Prep & Cook Time:
5 minutes
Servings:
About 1 cup
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Taste and add salt if needed.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations:
- Use roasted garlic for a milder and sweeter garlic flavor.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
Nutritional Info (approximate per tablespoon):
Calories: 110, Fat: 12g, Carbs: 1g, Protein: 0g