If you’re looking for a way to elevate sandwiches, burgers, or veggie platters, say hello to black garlic aioli. Combining black garlic’s deep, umami sweetness with creamy mayonnaise (or similar alternatives) results in a bold, irresistible spread that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Below is a quick and straightforward recipe, plus suggestions for putting it to good use.

Why Black Garlic?

Black garlic, created through a weeks-long aging process, offers a mellow, sweet flavor that’s significantly different from raw garlic. It’s gentle on the stomach, doesn’t leave you with overwhelming garlic breath, and often has higher antioxidant levels than its raw counterpart. The complex flavor profile—featuring notes of balsamic, molasses, or roasted fruit—adds a gourmet twist to traditional aioli.

Black Garlic Aioli: Recipe Overview

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of mayonnaise (regular, light, or vegan mayo)

  • 3–4 cloves of black garlic, peeled and mashed

  • 1 teaspoon of lemon juice (freshly squeezed, if possible)

  • 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)

  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt, or to taste

  • 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

  • Pinch of cayenne or chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Yield

Makes about 1 cup of aioli, enough to serve 4–6 people (depending on usage).

Time

  • Preparation: 10 minutes

  • Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes (for best flavor meld)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mash the Black Garlic: If your black garlic cloves aren’t already mashed, use a fork to press them into a paste. Their soft, jammy texture makes this easy.

  2. Combine Mayo and Garlic: In a medium bowl, add the mashed black garlic to the mayonnaise. Stir until the garlic is well incorporated.

  3. Add Lemon Juice and Mustard: For brightness and tang, mix in the lemon juice and (optionally) Dijon mustard.

  4. Season It: Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne if you want a spicy twist.

  5. Taste and Adjust: Give it a quick taste test. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to suit your preference.

  6. Chill (Optional): While you can serve the aioli immediately, allowing it to rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes helps the flavors blend.

Tips and Variations

  • Make It Vegan: Swap regular mayo for a vegan alternative, ensuring the rest of your ingredients (like Dijon mustard) are also vegan-friendly.

  • Herb Boost: Add chopped fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or chives for color and extra flavor.

  • Garlic Intensity: If you want a stronger black garlic presence, simply add an extra clove or two.

  • Storage: Keep the aioli in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s generally best used within 4–5 days.

Serving Suggestions

1. Sandwiches & Wraps

Spread black garlic aioli on your favorite sandwich or wrap in place of plain mayo. It pairs especially well with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or even tuna salad.

2. Burgers & Sliders

Looking to upgrade your barbecue game? Swap out ketchup for a dollop of black garlic aioli to complement the smoky flavors of beef, turkey, or veggie patties.

3. Dipping Sauce

Turn it into a crowd-pleasing dip by serving it alongside fries, sweet potato wedges, onion rings, or raw veggies. It’s also a delicious companion for seafood like shrimp or calamari.

4. Salad Dressing Base

Thin it out with a bit of water or extra lemon juice and use it as a creamy dressing for coleslaw or potato salad.

5. Charcuterie Board Companion

Drizzle a spoonful onto a cheese board or charcuterie platter. Its sweet and tangy undertones play nicely with cured meats, olives, and a variety of cheeses.

Final Thoughts

Black garlic aioli proves that you don’t need elaborate techniques to introduce gourmet flair into everyday meals. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a dip or spread that delivers a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy punch. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply looking for a new go-to condiment, this black garlic aioli might just become a staple in your kitchen.

So, grab those soft, black cloves and whip up a batch. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll be hooked on the depth and complexity it brings to even the simplest dishes. Enjoy!