Chili Crisp Mayo Recipe

Ingredients (for 12 servings):

• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon spicy chili crisp (such as Lao Gan Ma)

Directions:

In a mini food processor, combine the mayonnaise and chili crisp. Blend until smooth and well incorporated, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Alternatively, if you dont have a food processor, you can simply stir the mayonnaise and chili crisp together in a bowl until fully mixed.

Cooks Note: Depending on the brand of chili crisp you use, you may want to add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	97
Total Fat	10g (13%)
Saturated Fat	2g (8%)
Cholesterol	5mg (2%)
Sodium	95mg (4%)
Total Carbohydrates	1g (1%)
Dietary Fiber	0g (0%)
Total Sugars	0g
Protein	0g (1%)
Vitamin C	1mg (1%)
Calcium	2mg (0%)
Iron	0mg (0%)
Potassium	33mg (1%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origins of Chili Crisp Mayo

Chili crisp mayo is a modern culinary creation that blends traditional Asian condiments with Western cuisine. Its foundation, chili crisp, originated in China, particularly popularized by the brand Lao Gan Ma in the 1990s. The spicy, crunchy chili oil quickly became a pantry staple across Asia and later worldwide. The fusion with mayonnaise, a classic Western condiment, likely emerged in the early 2000s as chefs and home cooks experimented with global flavors, seeking a creamy, spicy, and texturally interesting sauce. The combination balances heat and richness, making it highly versatile in contemporary kitchens.

Regional Characteristics

While the chili crisp itself is traditionally Chinese, chili crisp mayo has found unique regional expressions. In the United States, it is commonly paired with sandwiches, burgers, and fries, emphasizing its role as a bold, creamy topping. In East Asia, chefs may drizzle it over seafood or use it as a dipping sauce for dumplings, highlighting local flavors such as sesame and fermented soy. The key regional distinction is how it adapts to local culinary habits, from being a side condiment in Western fast food to an accent in Asian home-style cooking.

Differences from Similar Sauces

Chili crisp mayo differs from other spicy sauces like Sriracha mayo or chipotle mayo in both texture and flavor complexity. Unlike smooth Sriracha mayo, chili crisp mayo incorporates crunchy bits of fried garlic, onions, and chili flakes, creating a layered experience. Its flavor is both smoky and umami-rich due to fermented soy and toasted spices, while chipotle mayo emphasizes smoky heat without the textural crunch. This makes chili crisp mayo not just a spicy sauce but a condiment that adds mouthfeel and depth to dishes.

Where Its Typically Served

Chili crisp mayo is highly versatile and can be found in various settings. In casual dining, it is a favorite for burgers, sandwiches, and fries. Gourmet restaurants may serve it alongside seared fish, grilled chicken, or even roasted vegetables as a finishing sauce. Street food vendors have also embraced it, drizzling it over tacos or bao buns. Its unique combination of spice, crunch, and creaminess allows it to elevate both everyday meals and more elaborate dishes.

Interesting Facts

• The crunch in chili crisp mayo comes from deep-fried garlic, shallots, and chili flakes, which are preserved in oil and give a textural surprise with every bite.
• Despite its bold flavor, it contains only two main ingredients: mayonnaise and chili crisp, making it deceptively simple to prepare at home.
• It has become a popular ingredient in fusion cuisine, inspiring creative uses in pasta, sushi rolls, and even pizza toppings.
• Many food bloggers and chefs suggest adjusting the chili crisp ratio for heat tolerance, allowing customization from mild to intensely spicy.
• The trend of chili crisp mayo reflects a broader movement of combining Eastern condiments with Western staples to create globally inspired flavors.

FAQ about Chili Crisp Mayo Recipe

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