Description
A rich and creamy saffron-infused aioli, perfect as a dip or spread.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 4 tsp fresh lemon juice
- Generous pinch saffron threads
- 1 1/2 – 2 Tbsp minced or grated garlic
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup neutral oil, such as avocado oil
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- Pinch ground white or black pepper
Instructions
- Blend the Base: Start by adding your egg and garlic into a blender or food processor. Pulse until everything is smooth and combined, which should take only a minute. This creates a creamy base, and avoid over-blending to keep the texture just right.
- Add Lemon Juice: Pour in the lemon juice and saffron infusion, then blend for another few seconds. The mixture should begin to brighten up, both in color and flavor. Be careful not to add too much liquid at once, or it can get too runny.
- Slowly Drizzle Oil: While blending, slowly drizzle in your oil until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy. This is where the magic happens, and you’ll see the change in texture. Just do not rush this part; adding oil too quickly can lead to separation.
- Season to Taste: Taste the aioli and add salt based on your preference, mixing it gently. You want that savory note to come through without overwhelming the saffron’s delicate flavor. If it tastes too garlicky, you can let it chill for a bit before serving.
- Store & Enjoy: Transfer the aioli into a container and give it a quick chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, if possible. This helps the flavors meld together and lets it thicken up a bit more. Remember, it is best enjoyed fresh, so do not let it linger too long in the fridge!
Notes
- Homemade aioli will last 10 days to 2 weeks under refrigeration in a sealed container. Do not freeze aioli or any homemade mayonnaise.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for achieving the right consistency.
- If your saffron aioli ends up too runny, adding an extra room-temperature egg yolk can help thicken it up nicely.
- When the aioli separates, mixing in a small amount of water while whisking can help restore its creamy texture.
- For a milder garlic flavor, letting minced garlic soak in lemon juice with saffron for a few minutes can soften the taste.
- If using cold eggs, warming them in water for about five minutes makes them easier to blend smoothly.
- This aioli does not require reheating, serve it cold directly from the refrigerator.
- Serve with raw vegetables for a fresh appetizer. Spread on sandwiches for added richness. Use as a dip for calamari or fried artichoke hearts.
- Add roasted garlic for a milder flavor. Incorporate fresh herbs like basil for an herby twist. Mix with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Choose fresh saffron threads for the best flavor experience. Use fresh, raw garlic and not jarred garlic for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: N/A
- Calories: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A