Kimchi mayonnaise is a simple 10-minute recipe packed with flavor and good for the gut, thanks to naturally occurring probiotics!
This might be the easiest recipe I’ve ever posted. If you follow me on Instagram, I often share tips for preventing food waste. Recently, I needed a quick sauce or spread to go with dumplings, and after scouring my refrigerator for ideas, this kimchi mayonnaise recipe was born. Now, it’s on regular rotation in our house!
Kimchi is a Korean condiment made by fermenting vegetables. It’s tart, tangy, savory, and can be pretty spicy, depending on the brand. The ingredients typically include cabbage, carrots, onions, garlic, vinegar, and seasonings. It’s packed with flavor, making it what I call a one-and-done condiment. That means condiments like kimchi and salsa work for you instead of adding all those ingredients separately. Don’t limit yourself to just eating it on the side. Mix it into sauces, dressings, rice, noodles, and more!
You can’t make kimchi mayonnaise without kimchi, and since it’s the main ingredient, the brand you choose matters. I’ve tried many brands over the years, and my favorite is Seoul Vegan Original Kimchi. I’m also a wimp when it comes to spice, so I appreciate that this brand offers a mild version. Use a brand of kimchi you enjoy eating for this recipe, or you won’t like the taste of the mayonnaise!
Kimchi Mayonnaise Recipe
Why We Love It
- Quick. From start to finish, this takes ten minutes to make!
- Flavorful. Tangy kimchi and rich mayonnaise = a total flavor bomb.
- Versatile. This can be used as a dressing, sauce, or dip. I provide more ideas below.
- Healthy! This is great for your digestive tract, thanks to naturally occurring probiotics in the kimchi.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in my kimchi mayonnaise are simple. I provide swaps under “variations and ingredient substitutions” below.
- Kimchi. As mentioned above, start with a kimchi you enjoy eating on its own. There are dozens of varieties at the grocery store.
- Mayonnaise. This is a simple recipe, so ingredients matter. Use a mayonnaise you like for the best results. Duke’s mayonnaise is my favorite, and I think it’s perfect for this recipe.
Optional Ingredients
- Sesame oil. The mayonnaise is delicious as written above, but a touch of sesame oil and sweetener jazzes it up. The sesame oil adds a delightful nuttiness that I’m obsessed with. Add one drop at a time, stir, and taste. It has a strong flavor, and it’s easy to overdo.
- Sweetener. A little sweetness helps to balance out the bold flavors in this mayonnaise. I use a tiny bit of monk fruit, but you can use sugar or a sugar substitute of your choice. Start with 1/4 teaspoon, stir, and taste. Add more as needed.
How to Make Kimchi Mayonnaise
This recipe is so simple that typing out instructions feels unnecessary, but for the sake of consistency, here we go.
- Chop the kimchi into tiny pieces.
- Add the kimchi and mayonnaise to a bowl.
- Mix well, taste, and adjust the salt and pepper, and you’re done!
Pro tip: If you prefer a smooth mayonnaise, skip chopping the kimchi. Add the ingredients to a small food processor and blend until the mixture is smooth.
Helpful Tips
- Chopping the kimchi takes a few extra minutes, but depending on the brand, the pieces can be pretty large. This is a personal preference, but since we’re using this as a mayonnaise or a spread, I prefer to chop the pieces very small.
- If the kimchi mayonnaise has a lot of liquid, let some of it drain off when scooping it out of the container. Excess liquid will make the mayonnaise too loose.
- Alternatively, to thin it out and drizzle it over a rice bowl, mix a little with some of the kimchi juice.
- There are many different brands of kimchi, and some include additional flavors like extra garlic and gochujang. Experimenting with different varieties can completely change the taste of the mayonnaise.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle over rice bowls, roasted potatoes, and veggies.
- Use as a dipping sauce for egg rolls and dumplings.
- Spread on your rolls or bread for an extra pop of flavor.
- Serve with raw veggies for a fun twist on a dipping sauce.
- Mix into tuna salad and serve with cucumber slices or crackers.
- Toss with cooked noodles and veggies for the most delicious noodle salad!
Variations and Ingredient Substitutions
- To spice it up, add your favorite hot sauce, gochujang, or cayenne.
- Add grated garlic or ginger, cilantro, or fresh lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
- A bit of Greek yogurt lightens it up and cuts through that heaviness of mayonnaise.
How To Store
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Sometimes, separation can occur, and this is normal. Just stir the mayonnaise well before using it.
If you’ve tried my kimchi mayonnaise recipe or any recipe on my site, please leave a comment below!
Check out our vegetarian, dairy-free, gluten-free, and low-carb recipes if you have food sensitivities! |
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Kimchi Mayonnaise
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup kimchi
Instructions
- Chop the kimchi into tiny pieces.
- Add the kimchi and mayonnaise to a bowl.
- Mix well, taste, and adjust the salt and pepper.
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