Your Mayonnaise Needs A Boozy Whiskey Boost

Making bourbon mayonnaise is easy

Bourbon mayonnaise typically requires just a handful of ingredients and a fork or whisk. Some recipes suggest using a blender, while a few even recommend igniting the bourbon to reduce it. However, for the most part, this is a quick and easy flavor enhancer for last-minute meals.

Generally, you don’t need much whiskey—bourbon is favored for its sweetness, as it has a distinct flavor compared to other whiskeys. About an ounce of bourbon per cup of mayonnaise is usually sufficient. From there, you can take the condiment in various directions. For a sweeter dressing (think honey mustard), incorporate a bit of maple syrup. For a more savory twist, try adding roasted garlic and lemon juice or sautéed onions and beef au jus. Alternatively, mix equal parts ketchup and mayo with a splash of bourbon for your own unique sauce. You can also spice up your boozy mayo with Calabrian chilis or smoked paprika.

If bourbon isn’t your preference, no worries! You can create similar recipes using rum, smoky Scotch, or añejo tequila, and the results will be comparable. Any recipe you choose will likely taste even better with a high-quality mayo like Kewpie or a homemade version. Looking for an alcohol-free alternative? Consider trying Cuso's maple bourbon seasoning. It’s a spice rub, so add it gradually until you achieve the desired flavor.

What does bourbon-infused mayo taste like and how to use it

We experimented with various recipes and found that bourbon mayonnaise is definitely ... an acquired taste. The ingredients come together nicely, but there seems to be an extra emulsion happening. The final product leaves a buttery aftertaste that feels out of place in a salad, yet it complements a toasted hamburger bun perfectly. Savory variations tend to be more successful than the sweeter ones, which is a bit surprising given how well bourbon and maple typically pair. The amount of liquid you incorporate will dictate whether the mixture is more like a salad dressing or thicker like a dip. Adding salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor, and igniting the bourbon before adding it introduces a smoky caramel essence. While the quantity of bourbon is up to your preference, be cautious—too much can overpower the dish, especially with higher-proof bourbons.

Based on our trials, salad dressing appears to be the least effective use for this mayo. Incorporating bourbon directly into a salad dressing might yield better results than drizzling flavored mayonnaise over greens. Many recipes recommend it as a gourmet spread for upscale burgers, and it indeed pairs well with buns, as the toasted oak notes from the bourbon enhance the buttery flavor of the bread. Most recipes also work wonderfully as a dip for spicy chicken wings or fries. For instance, Bardog Tavern in Memphis, Tennessee, serves bourbon mayo with its shoestring fries. Give it a shot wherever you would typically use regular mayonnaise—you might be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.