If you’re a fan of bold, flavorful sauces, then you need to try Chipotle Aioli. This creamy, smoky, and subtly spicy condiment is a game-changer in the kitchen, adding a delightful kick to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re dipping crispy fries, slathering it on sandwiches, or drizzling it over grilled meats, Chipotle Aioli will quickly become a staple in your culinary arsenal.
Table of Contents
What is Chipotle Aioli?
Chipotle Aioli is a variation of the classic aioli sauce, which is a rich, emulsified sauce made with egg yolk, garlic, and olive oil. The addition of chipotle chiles in adobo sauce adds a smoky, spicy element to the creamy base, creating a unique and flavorful condiment.
Ingredients Breakdown
To make the perfect Chipotle Aioli, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 egg – Left at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the yolk to come to temperature, which helps with emulsion.
- 2 tbsp lime juice – Freshly squeezed to provide a bright, acidic note.
- 1 clove garlic – Minced to infuse the aioli with aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard – Helps emulsify the sauce and adds depth of flavor.
- 1 tbsp chipotle chile in adobo – Provides the signature smoky heat.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – Enhances the overall smokiness of the aioli.
- 1/2 tsp sea salt – To taste.
- 3/4 cup avocado oil – Or any neutral-flavored oil, to create the emulsion.
Tools Required
To make Chipotle Aioli, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula for scraping down the sides
- Airtight container for storage
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Chipotle Aioli is a simple process, but it requires a bit of patience and technique to achieve the perfect emulsion. Follow these steps for a creamy and flavorful result:
- Place the egg, lime juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, chipotle chile, smoked paprika, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend on low speed.
- While the blender is running, slowly drizzle in the avocado oil in a thin stream. This slow incorporation of the oil is crucial for achieving a stable emulsion.
- Blend until the mixture is thick and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Taste the aioli and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or a touch of lime juice to balance the flavors.
- Transfer the Chipotle Aioli to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. It will keep for up to 1 week in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Chipotle Aioli is a versatile sauce that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some tasty ways to enjoy it:
- As a dipping sauce for crispy fries, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread
- Spread on sandwiches, burgers, or wraps for a flavor boost
- Drizzled over grilled meats, fish, or seafood
- Tossed with salads or used as a creamy dressing
- Served alongside tacos, quesadillas, or other Mexican-inspired dishes
Variations
While the classic Chipotle Aioli is delicious as-is, you can also experiment with different flavor variations to suit your taste preferences:
- Spicy Chipotle Aioli: Add an extra tablespoon of chipotle chiles in adobo for a fiery kick.
- Herb-Infused Chipotle Aioli: Fold in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor.
- Vegan Chipotle Aioli: Use aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) instead of egg yolk to create a plant-based version.
Storage and Shelf Life
Chipotle Aioli should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 1 week when properly stored. Be sure to discard the aioli if it develops any off-flavors or begins to separate.
FAQs About Chipotle Aioli
What can I use instead of chipotle in adobo?
If you can’t find chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, you can substitute with other spicy, smoky ingredients like canned chipotles, smoked paprika, or a combination of cayenne pepper and cumin.
How long can I keep homemade aioli?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, Chipotle Aioli will keep for up to 1 week. The high-fat content and acidity help preserve the sauce, but it’s best to use it within the first few days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Can I make Chipotle Aioli without eggs?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of Chipotle Aioli by using aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) instead of egg yolk. The aquafaba will help emulsify the sauce, creating a similar creamy texture.
What is the best oil to use for aioli?
For Chipotle Aioli, we recommend using a neutral-flavored oil like avocado oil or light olive oil. These oils have a high smoke point and won’t overwhelm the other flavors in the sauce.
Can I freeze Chipotle Aioli?
While you can technically freeze Chipotle Aioli, it’s not recommended, as the emulsion can break down during the freezing and thawing process. It’s best to make only the amount you’ll need and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Conclusion
Chipotle Aioli is a flavor-packed condiment that will elevate your cooking game. With its perfect balance of creaminess, smokiness, and subtle heat, this versatile sauce can transform a variety of dishes from mundane to memorable. Give it a try, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible aioli!
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Chipotle Sauce with Garlic and Sour Cream
- Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
- Hot Honey Chicken Bowl
Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!
PrintDiscover the Best Chipotle Aioli Recipe for Every Occasion
Chipotle Aioli is a creamy, smoky, and subtly spicy condiment that adds a delightful kick to various dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chile in adobo
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 3/4 cup avocado oil
Instructions
1. 1. Place the egg, lime juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, chipotle chile, smoked paprika, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend on low speed.
2. 2. While the blender is running, slowly drizzle in the avocado oil in a thin stream. This slow incorporation of the oil is crucial for achieving a stable emulsion.
3. 3. Blend until the mixture is thick and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. 4. Taste the aioli and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or a touch of lime juice to balance the flavors.
5. 5. Transfer the Chipotle Aioli to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. It will keep for up to 1 week in the fridge.
Notes
Chipotle Aioli pairs well with crispy fries, sandwiches, grilled meats, and salads.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoon
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
Keywords: aioli, chipotle, sauce