Aioli and mayo both serve as versatile condiments for dipping or spreading, but their key differences lie in their ingredients and origins. While mayo is typically made from oil, egg yolks, and an acid like vinegar or lemon juice, aioli incorporates garlic as a defining flavor. The texture and richness can vary slightly between the two, with aioli often featuring a smoother, more garlicky profile. Understanding these distinctions can help choose the right one for different dishes.
When it comes to dipping or spreading, you can't really go wrong with either aioli or mayo - but it's worth knowing how they're different.
