Out of Mayonnaise, one case
Vegan mayonnaise substitutes: best plant-based alternatives
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Aquafaba
Same amount as the mayonnaise
The best vegan mayonnaise substitutes are aquafaba (1:1 ratio), silken tofu (1:1 ratio), or mashed avocado (1:1 ratio). Aquafaba can be whipped like egg whites, while silken tofu provides creaminess and avocado adds healthy fats.
- Best for —
- vegan mayonnaise
One casethe full mayonnaise card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of mayonnaise |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aquafabavegan mayonnaise | Same amount |
| 2 | Silken tofu (blended)vegan mayonnaise | Same amount |
| 3 | Mashed avocadovegan cooking | Same amount |
| 4 | Hummusvegan cooking | Same amount |
| 5 | Cashew creamvegan cooking | Same amount |
Aquafaba
neutral taste · light and airy when whipped
The liquid from canned chickpeas that can be whipped like egg whites. It's good for creating vegan mayonnaise with the right texture and consistency, and it's completely plant-based.
- Best for
- vegan mayonnaise, when you want whipped texture, emulsified sauces, plant-based cooking
Whip aquafaba with a mixer until it forms stiff peaks. Works best when chilled before whipping. Creates a light, airy mayonnaise that's completely vegan.
Silken tofu (blended)
neutral taste · smooth and creamy
Blended silken tofu provides the creamy base for vegan mayonnaise. It's high in protein and creates a thick, spreadable consistency that works well in most recipes.
- Best for
- vegan mayonnaise, when you want creamy texture, high protein, thick sauces
Blend silken tofu until completely smooth before using. Add lemon juice and seasonings for flavor. Rich in protein and creates a creamy, thick texture.
Mashed avocado
rich and buttery
Ripe mashed avocado provides natural creaminess and healthy monounsaturated fats. It's completely plant-based and adds a rich, buttery flavor to dishes.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, when you want healthy fats, creamy texture, natural option
- Texture
- creamy and smooth
Use ripe avocados for best texture. Add lemon juice to prevent browning and enhance flavor. Rich in healthy fats and fiber.
Hummus
slightly nutty
Plain hummus provides plant-based protein and creaminess from chickpeas and tahini. It's naturally vegan and adds a slightly nutty flavor to dishes.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, when you want protein, creamy texture, Mediterranean flavor
- Texture
- thick and creamy
Choose plain hummus without added oils. Rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Contains iron and folate from chickpeas.
Cashew cream
slightly nutty and rich
Blended cashews create a rich, creamy base that works well as a mayonnaise substitute. It's high in healthy fats and provides a luxurious texture.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, when you want rich texture, healthy fats, luxurious mouthfeel
- Texture
- smooth and creamy
Soak cashews for 2-4 hours before blending. Blend with water until smooth. Rich in healthy fats and creates a luxurious, creamy texture.
How it behaves in this recipe
Vegan mayonnaise substitutes work by providing similar creamy texture and binding properties while being completely plant-based. They typically use ingredients like aquafaba, silken tofu, or avocado to create the desired consistency without any animal products.
Tips for substituting mayonnaise
7 tips- Aquafaba is the most popular choice for vegan mayonnaise as it can be whipped to create the right texture
- Silken tofu works well for creating a thick, spreadable vegan mayonnaise
- For best results, blend silken tofu until completely smooth before using
- Add lemon juice to any substitute to enhance flavor and prevent browning
- For extra creaminess, you can mix different substitutes together
- Store homemade vegan mayonnaise in the refrigerator and use within 3-5 days
- For a more authentic mayonnaise flavor, add a pinch of mustard powder and apple cider vinegar
Notes on mayonnaise
- For whipped texture, use aquafaba
- For creamy texture, use silken tofu or cashew cream
- For healthy fats, use mashed avocado
- For protein content, use silken tofu or hummus
- For rich texture, use cashew cream
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best vegan substitute for mayonnaise?
Aquafaba is the best vegan substitute for mayonnaise. It can be whipped like egg whites to create the good texture and consistency. Use a 1:1 ratio and whip until stiff peaks form.
Can I use silken tofu instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, silken tofu works great as a vegan mayonnaise substitute! Blend it until smooth and use a 1:1 ratio. It provides creaminess and protein while being completely plant-based.
Is avocado a good vegan mayonnaise substitute?
Yes, mashed avocado is an excellent vegan mayonnaise substitute. It provides natural creaminess and healthy fats while being completely plant-based. Use a 1:1 ratio and add lemon juice to prevent browning.
How do I make vegan mayonnaise?
You can make vegan mayonnaise using aquafaba, silken tofu, or mashed avocado. For aquafaba, whip it until stiff peaks form. For silken tofu, blend until smooth. For avocado, mash until creamy. Add lemon juice and seasonings to taste.
Can I use hummus as a vegan mayonnaise substitute?
Yes, hummus can work as a vegan mayonnaise substitute. It provides creaminess and protein while being completely plant-based. Use a 1:1 ratio and choose plain hummus for best results.