Bacon aioli is primarily made from a combination of mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chopped bacon.
Key Ingredients for Homemade Bacon Aioli
At its core, bacon aioli builds upon the traditional aioli base of emulsified garlic and olive oil, enhanced significantly by the rich, savory flavor of bacon. The homemade version typically involves a simple assembly of readily available ingredients.
Here's a breakdown of the essential components:
- Mayonnaise: This forms the creamy base of the aioli, providing its characteristic texture and binding the other flavors.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, acidic counterpoint that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and bacon, balancing the flavors.
- Olive Oil: Contributes to the smooth consistency and adds a subtle, fruity depth.
- Minced Garlic: The hallmark of any aioli, fresh minced garlic provides a pungent, aromatic foundation.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Pepper: Adds a touch of mild spice and aromatic complexity.
- Chopped Bacon: The star ingredient, offering a smoky, salty, and crispy element that defines the "bacon" in bacon aioli. A small portion of chopped bacon can also be reserved for garnishing the dip.
Simple Preparation Process
Creating bacon aioli is straightforward. All the ingredients, including mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and most of the chopped bacon, are typically combined in a bowl. They are then mixed until well combined, creating a flavorful and creamy dip. A small amount of chopped bacon can be set aside to decorate the finished aioli before serving.
Common Uses for Bacon Aioli
Bacon aioli is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. It is often used as:
- A spread for sandwiches and burgers
- A dip for french fries, sweet potato fries, or roasted vegetables
- A flavorful addition to wraps or lettuce cups
- A sauce for grilled meats or seafood
