What kind of mayo can you eat on a carnivore diet? Homemade is the Answer

Most store-bought mayonnaise is unsuitable for a carnivore diet due to inflammatory seed oils and additives. This guide explains what kind of mayo can you eat on a carnivore diet, focusing on simple, homemade recipes using animal fats.

Quick Summary

Homemade mayonnaise made with animal fats like tallow, bacon grease, or duck fat is the only suitable option. Learn the ingredients and methods to create a carnivore-compliant condiment.

Key Points

• Avoid Store-Bought Mayo: Commercial mayonnaise contains inflammatory seed oils and non-carnivore additives like sugar.

• Make Your Own: Homemade mayo is the only compliant option for a carnivore diet, giving you full control over ingredients.

• Choose Animal Fats: Use rendered animal fats such as beef tallow, bacon grease, or duck fat as the oil base.

• Master Emulsification: Successful homemade mayo requires careful technique, especially when using an immersion blender to combine fat and eggs.

• Select Your Flavor: The type of animal fat you use will significantly influence the final flavor of your mayonnaise.

• Use Raw or Boiled Eggs: Two main methods for carnivore mayo exist, one using raw egg yolks and another using hard-boiled eggs.

For those committed to the carnivore diet, navigating the world of condiments can be a significant challenge. The shelves of your local grocery store are filled with sauces and dressings that, while delicious, are packed with ingredients that are not compatible with an all-meat eating plan. When it comes to mayonnaise, the rules are no different. The commercial versions are off-limits, but that doesn't mean you have to give up this creamy, versatile spread. The solution is to get into the kitchen and make your own carnivore-compliant version using animal-based fats.

The Problem with Store-Bought Mayonnaise

The Seed Oil Issue

Most commercial mayonnaise brands are formulated with cheap, processed vegetable oils, also known as industrial seed oils, such as canola, soybean, and safflower oil. These oils are high in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which are prone to oxidation and are considered inflammatory by many in the carnivore and ancestral health communities. The historical shift towards seed oils in the standard diet is a significant concern for those focused on eliminating potentially harmful ingredients. By adhering to a carnivore diet, individuals aim to remove these highly processed fats from their diet entirely.

Hidden Additives

Beyond the oils, many jarred mayonnaise products contain sugars, preservatives, and artificial flavors to extend shelf life and enhance taste. Ingredients like sugar, gums, and other fillers are strictly prohibited on a clean carnivore diet, which focuses solely on animal-derived products. These non-animal ingredients pose a clear conflict with the dietary principles of the carnivore lifestyle.

The Carnivore-Approved Mayonnaise Solution: Go Homemade

The secret to making carnivore-friendly mayo lies in controlling the ingredients. By replacing seed oils with rendered animal fats, you create a wholesome, nutrient-dense condiment that is completely compliant. The core ingredients are simple: fat, eggs, and salt. The type of animal fat you choose will influence the flavor, so you can customize your mayo to your personal taste.

Essential Ingredients for Carnivore Mayo

• Animal Fat: The cornerstone of carnivore mayo, replacing the unhealthy seed oils. Good options include:
  • Beef Tallow: Made from rendered beef fat, it offers a neutral, mildly beefy flavor profile.
  • Bacon Grease: Rendered from cooked bacon, it provides a rich, smoky flavor and is a great way to use up leftover cooking fat.
  • Duck Fat: Imparts a silky texture and a distinct, savory taste.
  • Ghee or Clarified Butter: Another option, though some strict carnivores avoid dairy.
• Eggs: The emulsifier that brings the fat and liquid together, creating the creamy texture. For a classic recipe, use raw egg yolks. For a boiled-egg version, use whole, hard-boiled eggs.
• Salt: Used for seasoning and to enhance the flavor. Use a high-quality salt like Redmond Real Salt or sea salt.

The Immersion Blender Method (Classic Raw Egg)

1. Prep Ingredients. Ensure your animal fat is melted but not hot, and your egg yolks are at room temperature. This is crucial for successful emulsification.
2. Combine. Add the egg yolks and a pinch of salt to a tall, narrow jar that fits the head of your immersion blender. Some variations include a small amount of carnivore broth or water.
3. Blend and Emulsify. Place the immersion blender at the bottom of the jar. Begin blending and very slowly drizzle the melted animal fat into the mixture. This slow, steady stream is crucial for successful emulsification.
4. Thicken. Hold the blender at the bottom until the mixture starts to thicken and turn white, then slowly move it upwards to incorporate all the fat.

The Hard-Boiled Egg Method (Easier Alternative)

1. Prepare Eggs. Boil and peel the eggs.
2. Combine. Place hard-boiled eggs, melted animal fat (bacon grease or tallow work well), and salt into a food processor or high-speed blender.
3. Blend. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If the mayo is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water or carnivore bone broth to reach your desired consistency.

Carnivore Mayo Fat Options: A Comparison

Feature	Beef Tallow	Bacon Grease	Duck Fat
Flavor Profile	Neutral, mildly beefy	Smoky, very savory	Rich, distinct poultry flavor
Texture	Firm, solidifies well	Smooth, creamy	Very smooth, silky
Melting Point	High, can be challenging	Moderate	Low, easy to work with
Accessibility	Requires rendering or purchase	Often a byproduct of cooking	Specialized product
Best For	Everyday, versatile mayo	Flavorful dressings, dipping	Elegant sauces, gourmet dishes

Addressing Common Carnivore Mayo Questions

What about flavorings like vinegar or mustard?

Some carnivore-adjacent recipes include small amounts of plant-based ingredients for flavor, such as mustard powder, lemon juice, or vinegar. A "strict" carnivore will avoid these, opting for only eggs, fat, and salt. However, those following a more relaxed or "carnivore-ish" approach may choose to include these as "carnivore-friendly" options, as they are typically used in very small quantities. It is a personal decision based on your dietary goals and tolerance.

How do you get a thick mayo without stabilizers?

The key to a thick, creamy texture is a successful emulsification of the fat and egg. This relies on using the correct technique, particularly with the immersion blender method, and ensuring your ingredients are at the right temperature. Cooling the finished mayo in the refrigerator will also help it to firm up significantly.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Carnivore Diet with Homemade Mayo

For anyone following a carnivore diet, mayonnaise can still be a part of your culinary experience, provided you take the reins in the kitchen. By focusing on simple, pure animal-based ingredients and mastering a straightforward homemade technique, you can craft a delicious, creamy condiment free from problematic seed oils and additives. Whether you prefer the neutral richness of tallow or the smoky flavor of bacon grease, homemade carnivore mayo offers a satisfying and compliant way to enhance your meals.

Resource Link: Learn more about the carnivore diet and its principles by visiting Doctor Kiltz.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any kind of mayonnaise on a carnivore diet?

No, most store-bought mayonnaise is not carnivore-friendly because it is made with industrial seed oils like canola or soybean oil, as well as sugar and other plant-based additives.

What is the best type of animal fat for carnivore mayo?

The 'best' type of animal fat depends on your flavor preference. Beef tallow offers a neutral, beefy flavor, bacon grease provides a smoky taste, and duck fat creates a rich, silky texture.

Do I have to use raw eggs for carnivore mayo?

No, you have two main options. A classic method uses raw egg yolks, but a simpler alternative involves blending hard-boiled eggs with the fat, which can be less finicky.

Is it okay to add lemon juice or vinegar to carnivore mayo?

Adding small amounts of lemon juice or vinegar is acceptable for a "carnivore-friendly" or "animal-based" approach, but it is not strictly carnivore since they are plant-derived. Many strict carnivores omit these ingredients entirely.

How do I prevent my homemade carnivore mayo from separating?

Successful emulsification is key. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature and add the melted fat very slowly in a thin stream while blending with an immersion blender.

How long will homemade carnivore mayo last in the fridge?

Homemade mayo, especially with raw eggs, has a shorter shelf life. It should be stored in a covered jar in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 5 to 7 days.

Can I use butter instead of rendered fat for my carnivore mayo?

Yes, some recipes call for ghee or clarified butter, which is a compliant animal fat source for many on the diet. It typically results in a slightly different texture and flavor.