Equipment Needed

• bowl
• whisk
• measuring spoon

Ingredients

• egg yolks
• oil (neutral flavored)
• vinegar or lemon juice
• mustard (optional)
• salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring egg yolks to room temperature (important for emulsification)
2. Place yolks in a bowl with mustard and salt
3. Whisk together briefly
4. Add oil ONE DROP at a time while whisking constantly
5. After about 2 tablespoons of oil, the mixture will start to emulsify
6. Once emulsified, add remaining oil in a thin stream while whisking
7. If mixture breaks (looks curdled), start over with fresh yolk and whisk in broken mixture
8. Once all oil is incorporated, adjust with vinegar, salt, and pepper

Professional Tips

• Room temperature ingredients are critical
• Start with just drops of oil - this is essential
• The emulsion is the key - oil gets trapped in yolk particles
• Mustard helps emulsify and adds flavor
• If it breaks, don't panic - start fresh and whisk in broken batch

What to Make

• sandwiches
• aioli (with garlic)
• salad dressing base
• sauce base
• dips