Vegan substitute for Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise is an oil-in-water emulsion held together by egg lecithin. Aquafaba and soy milk emulsify just as well.
Options, ratios and best uses
Aquafaba mayo
3 tbsp aquafaba + 200 ml oilBlend with a stick blender, drizzling oil slowly.
Best for: homemade, fresh
Soy milk mayo
100 ml soy + 200 ml oilEmulsifies in 30 seconds; add lemon at the end.
Best for: quick, thick mayo
Shop-bought vegan mayo
1:1Widely available and often indistinguishable.
Best for: everything
Cashew aioli
1:1Blend soaked cashews, garlic, lemon and oil.
Best for: dips, garlic sauce
Tips
- Use neutral oil, not olive, for classic flavour
- Add mustard for stability and bite
- Keep homemade mayo refrigerated up to a week
Avoid
- Adding oil too fast — the emulsion breaks
- Using cold soy milk straight from the fridge
Questions people ask
Is vegan mayo healthier?
It is cholesterol-free but still mostly oil, so treat it the same way.
Can I fix split mayo?
Start with fresh aquafaba and drizzle the split mixture in slowly.