Easy Vegan Mayonnaise with Silken Tofu

This Easy Vegan Mayonnaise with Silken Tofu is smooth, tangy, and incredibly versatile. I love how it comes together in just minutes and gives me a healthier, protein-packed alternative to traditional mayo.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s oil-free, light, and budget-friendly, yet it still delivers the creamy texture I want from mayonnaise. The silken tofu blends perfectly with vinegar and lemon juice, creating a spread that works on sandwiches, in salads, or as a dip base.

Ingredients

1 package (12 oz) firm or extra firm silken tofu drained
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon mustard powder
1-2 teaspoons pure maple syrup or agave syrup optional

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I drain the silken tofu and place it in a blender or food processor.
2. I add lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, mustard powder, and maple syrup (if I want a touch of sweetness).
3. I blend until the mixture becomes completely smooth and creamy.
4. I taste and adjust the flavors, adding more vinegar or lemon juice for tang, or more sweetener if I prefer a balanced flavor.
5. I refrigerate the mayonnaise for at least 30 minutes before using to let it thicken and develop flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 1 ½ cups of vegan mayonnaise, enough for 8–10 servings. It takes only 5 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes of chilling time.

Variations

I sometimes add a clove of garlic for a garlicky aioli-style mayo. For a smoky version, I mix in smoked paprika. A teaspoon of Dijon mustard also gives it a sharper, more traditional mayonnaise flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Since it’s a chilled condiment, I don’t reheat it. I stir it before serving in case it separates slightly.

FAQs

Can I use soft silken tofu instead of firm?

Yes, but the mayonnaise will be slightly thinner. Firm silken tofu makes it creamier.

Can I make this recipe without mustard powder?

Yes, but I like adding it for a subtle depth of flavor. Dijon mustard can also be used instead.

Is this mayonnaise oil-free?

Yes, it’s naturally oil-free, making it lighter than traditional mayo.

Can I freeze vegan mayo?

I don’t recommend freezing since the texture changes when thawed.

Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?

Yes, lime juice works well and adds a fresh tang.

Does this taste exactly like regular mayonnaise?

It’s similar in creaminess and tang but lighter and slightly different in flavor.

Can I make it sweeter?

Yes, I add extra maple syrup or agave for a sweeter mayo.

How do I make it thicker?

I use extra firm silken tofu or reduce the vinegar slightly.

Can I blend it by hand?

I recommend a blender or food processor for the smoothest result.

What dishes can I use this mayo in?

I love it in sandwiches, wraps, pasta salads, potato salads, and as a dip base.

Conclusion

I love how quick, creamy, and versatile this Easy Vegan Mayonnaise with Silken Tofu is. It’s healthier than store-bought options, simple to make, and perfect for elevating so many dishes. This is one staple I always keep in my fridge.

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