Many food lovers find Kewpie mayo’s rich, umami taste hard to replace.
When your local store runs out, or you need a quick fix, finding a substitute that matches its distinct flavor can be frustrating.
Yet there’s no need to worry. You can recreate similar flavors and textures using ingredients you might already have in your kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll show you seven tested alternatives that work well in place of Kewpie mayo.
From simple homemade versions to store-bought options, these substitutes will help you maintain the authentic taste of your favorite dishes.
Let’s look at each option and learn how to use them effectively in your cooking.
Top Alternatives to Kewpie Mayo
1. Regular Mayonnaise with Rice Vinegar and Sugar
If you love the creamy texture of regular mayonnaise but want to achieve the distinct flavor profile of Kewpie mayo, this substitute is an excellent choice.
This versatile substitute works beautifully in salads, sandwiches, sushi, or as a dipping sauce. It’s a quick fix with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients: Regular mayonnaise (1 cup), rice vinegar (1 tablespoon), sugar (1 teaspoon).
Recipe:
- Combine the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, and sugar in a bowl.
- Stir thoroughly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for later use. This can be a base for other sauces or dips.
2. Japanese-style Mustard and Regular Mayonnaise
Japanese mustard (karashi) has a bold flavor that complements the creaminess of mayo, creating a rich and slightly spicy taste.
This combination is particularly suited for dishes like okonomiyaki and takoyaki or even as a spread for sandwiches. It brings an authentic Japanese touch to your meals while being easy to prepare.
Ingredients: Regular mayonnaise (1 cup), Japanese mustard, or Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon).
Recipe:
- Mix the mayonnaise and mustard in a small bowl.
- Stir until the mustard is evenly incorporated, resulting in a smooth texture.
- Use it as a condiment, dressing, or a base for dips. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
3. Sriracha Mayo
For a bold and spicy twist, Sriracha mayo serves as an exciting alternative to Kewpie mayonnaise. It’s a great choice for dishes like sushi rolls, spicy burgers, or even as a dipping sauce for fries and snacks.
You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less Sriracha, making it a customizable option for those who enjoy a kick in their food.
Ingredients: Regular mayonnaise (1 cup), Sriracha sauce (1-2 teaspoons, or to taste).
Recipe:
- Add mayonnaise and Sriracha to a bowl.
- Blend thoroughly until the mixture has a consistent color and texture.
- Use immediately or store in the refrigerator. This spicy mayo is perfect for enhancing the flavor of various dishes.
4. Greek Yogurt with Rice Vinegar and Sugar
For a healthier twist on Kewpie mayo, Greek yogurt provides a creamy base with fewer calories and added protein.
This substitute is an excellent option for those looking to reduce fat content while maintaining a similar taste and texture. It works well in salads, wraps, or as a dip for vegetables and snacks.
Ingredients: Greek yogurt (1 cup), rice vinegar (1 tablespoon), sugar (1 teaspoon).
Recipe:
- Combine Greek yogurt, rice vinegar, and sugar in a mixing bowl.
- Whisk the ingredients until smooth, and the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Use it as a spread, dressing, or dip. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
5. Avocado Mayo
For a plant-based and nutritious alternative, avocado mayo is a fantastic choice. The natural creaminess of avocado pairs well with a touch of rice vinegar and sugar to deliver a substitute reminiscent of Kewpie mayo’s flavor.
This option is perfect for those seeking a dairy-free and nutrient-rich substitute. It’s versatile and works in sandwiches, salads, or as a dip.
Ingredients: Mashed avocado (1 medium avocado), rice vinegar (1 teaspoon), sugar (1 teaspoon), salt (a pinch).
Recipe:
- Mash the avocado in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
6. Sour Cream and Mustard
This combination provides a tangy and creamy substitute with a hint of spice from mustard.
It mimics Kewpie mayo’s flavor profile while offering a thicker texture, making it ideal for dips, spreads, or topping dishes. This is a convenient option if you have sour cream and mustard readily available in your kitchen.
Ingredients: Sour cream (1 cup), mustard (1 teaspoon), rice vinegar (1 teaspoon).
Recipe:
- Combine sour cream, mustard, and rice vinegar in a bowl.
- Stir until smooth and the flavors are evenly mixed.
- Use as a dip, spread, or dressing. Refrigerate any unused portion for up to three days.
7. Homemade Mayo with Egg Yolk and Rice Vinegar
For the closest match to authentic Kewpie mayonnaise, making your own mayo from scratch is the best option.
Using fresh egg yolk, rice vinegar, and oil, you can create a rich, creamy, and slightly tangy mayo that replicates the taste and texture of the original. This is perfect for culinary enthusiasts who want a completely homemade alternative.
Ingredients: Egg yolk (1), rice vinegar (1 tablespoon), sugar (1 teaspoon), oil (1 cup), salt (a pinch).
Recipe:
- Whisk the egg yolk in a bowl until creamy.
- Add the rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt, and mix well.
- Gradually add oil in a thin stream while whisking continuously to create an emulsion.
- Continue whisking until the mixture thickens into a creamy consistency.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
Finding the right substitute for Kewpie mayo doesn’t have to be complicated. Each option we’ve shared brings its own unique qualities to your dishes.
While some alternatives might work better in certain recipes than others, you now have several choices to pick from when Kewpie mayo isn’t available.
Remember, the key is to experiment with these substitutes to find what suits your taste preferences. You might even find a new favorite in the process. Start with small amounts and adjust according to your recipe’s needs.
Have you tried any of these alternatives before? We’d love to hear about your experiences with these substitutes.
Share your thoughts in the comments below, or tell us about other replacements that have worked well for you in your cooking.
