Easy Cashew Mayonnaise (Vegan, Oil-free) Recipe
This easy cashew mayonnaise recipe is a creamy, oil-free, and vegan alternative to traditional mayonnaise. Made from soaked raw cashews blended with lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and sea salt, it delivers a rich and tangy flavor perfect for sandwiches, salads, and dips. Ready in just 5 minutes with basic ingredients, it’s a healthy and delicious condiment for plant-based diets.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (including soaking)
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup (about 1 serving)
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegan, Plant-based
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Cashew Mayonnaise Ingredients
- 1 cup (4 oz / 112 g) raw cashews
- 1/3 cup (75 mL) cold water, plus more as needed
- 2 tablespoons (30 mL) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, more or less to taste
- 2 cups (500 mL) boiling water, for soaking cashews
Instructions
- Soak Cashews: Place the raw cashews in a mason jar or glass bowl and pour 2 cups (500 mL) of boiling water over them. Let the cashews soak for 15 to 20 minutes until they become very plump. Once soaked, drain and rinse the cashews thoroughly with cold water.
- Blend Ingredients: Transfer the soaked cashews to a small food processor or a handheld bullet-style blender. Add 1/3 cup (75 mL) of cold water, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and fine sea salt.
- Process Until Smooth: Blend the mixture, stopping frequently to scrape down the sides and bottom of the container. Continue this process for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the mixture is very smooth, creamy, and has reached the consistency of mayonnaise.
- Adjust Consistency and Flavor: If the mayonnaise is too thick, add more cold water a little at a time to loosen it to your desired consistency. Taste the mayonnaise and adjust seasoning by adding additional salt, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, or lemon juice if needed. Blend again briefly to incorporate any additions.
Notes
- Soaking the cashews in boiling water softens them for easier blending and a creamier texture.
- For a thinner consistency, gradually add more cold water during blending.
- Store the cashew mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 5 days.
- This recipe is naturally vegan, oil-free, and gluten-free.
- You can customize the flavor by adding herbs or spices according to your preference.
