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If you've ever wondered what gives dishes at your favourite Japanese restaurant that extra creamy, tangy and deeply savoury flavour, the secret might just be in the mayonnaise. Far from the standard condiment you'd put in a sandwich, authentic Japanese mayonnaise is a culinary game-changer. It offers a richer texture and a distinct umami profile that can elevate everything from simple salads to elaborate homemade sushi.
Navigating the options available in the UK can be tricky. To help you find the right one for your kitchen, we've put together a guide on what to look for, along with our top recommendations for home cooks and food enthusiasts.
Before diving into specific products, understanding what sets this condiment apart is key. Here are a few points to consider during your search.
Unlike many Western-style mayonnaises that use whole eggs, traditional Japanese recipes often call for only the egg yolks. This is a primary reason for its characteristically rich, custardy texture and deeper yellow colour. The higher fat content from the yolks creates a more luxurious mouthfeel that stands up well in various dishes.
The signature taste of Japanese mayonnaise comes from its unique blend of vinegars and seasonings. Many brands use rice vinegar, which provides a milder, less sharp tang than the spirit vinegar common in UK and US mayos. Some formulations also include ingredients that enhance the savoury, or umami, quality, creating that moreish flavour that makes it so addictive. This makes it an excellent umami sauce for a wide range of foods.
While the classic style is incredibly versatile, don't overlook flavoured options. A popular choice is sesame mayo, which infuses the creamy base with nutty, toasted notes. This variant works beautifully as a Japanese salad dressing or a dip for grilled meats and vegetables, offering a convenient way to add complex flavour with minimal effort.
Here are a few standout options that cater to different tastes and culinary needs, from authentic classics to versatile flavoured sauces.
Why It Stands Out: Often considered the gold standard, Kewpie mayonnaise is beloved across Japan and by chefs worldwide. Its recipe uses four egg yolks per 500g, which delivers an exceptionally rich and smooth consistency. The flavour is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy and savoury, thanks to a unique blend of vinegars and a touch of flavour enhancer (E621) for that signature umami depth. The soft, squeezable bottle with its star-shaped nozzle is not just iconic; it's practical for decorating dishes like okonomiyaki and takoyaki.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is for the purist seeking the authentic taste of Japan. It's the go-to mayonnaise for sushi rolls, a must-have for making takoyaki mayonnaise, and a fantastic upgrade for sandwiches, salads and dips.
Why It Stands Out: For those looking to explore beyond the classic, KENKO's Sesame Mayo is an excellent choice. It combines creamy mayonnaise with rich sesame paste, balanced with a touch of honey (8%) and yellow mustard sauce (15%). The result is a complex flavour profile that is nutty, slightly sweet and gently spicy without being overpowering. It's made with non-GMO soybean oil and contains no trans fats, preservatives or xanthan gum, making it a thoughtful choice for family meals.
Pros:
Who is it for? Ideal for home cooks who want a versatile, all-in-one sauce. Use it as a Japanese salad dressing, a dip for fried chicken or chips, or a flavourful spread for burgers and sandwiches to instantly add a gourmet touch.
Why It Stands Out: While not a Japanese mayonnaise, Hellmann's Real Mayonnaise serves as a useful benchmark. It represents the classic Western-style profile that many in the UK are familiar with: thick, creamy and straightforwardly tangy. Made with 100% free-range eggs and sustainably sourced oils, it’s a reliable and high-quality staple for everyday use. Its flavour is less complex than its Japanese counterparts, focusing on a clean, creamy taste.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is for those who prefer a traditional mayonnaise flavour or need a dependable all-rounder for classic recipes like tuna mayo or jacket potatoes. It provides a good contrast to understand the unique qualities of Japanese-style options.
The world of mayonnaise is surprisingly diverse. If you're curious to explore other flavours, from spicy sriracha-infused varieties to different types of sesame dressings, there are many more choices to discover.
? Explore our full range of mayonnaise and sauces here
The primary differences lie in the ingredients and flavour. Japanese mayonnaise is typically made with only egg yolks, giving it a richer, more custardy texture. It also tends to use rice vinegar and other seasonings to create a distinctively tangy and savoury umami flavour, whereas regular mayonnaise often uses whole eggs and a sharper spirit vinegar for a simpler taste.
Kewpie mayonnaise has a unique flavour that is richer and tangier than standard mayonnaise. It is creamy and savoury with a noticeable umami depth, a result of its egg-yolk-only base and special vinegar blend. Many people describe it as having a slight sweetness and a more complex, "eggier" taste.
Absolutely. Its rich flavour and creamy texture make it an excellent mayonnaise for sushi, especially in modern rolls like California rolls or spicy tuna rolls. You can mix it with sriracha for a spicy kick or drizzle it on top for a finishing touch.