4 proven alternatives for baking, cooking, and more
RATIO:
3 tbsp aquafaba + 1 cup oil + 1 tbsp lemon juice
BEST FOR:
BAKING CONTEXT:
Not recommended for baking.
💡 PRO TIPS:
Whip aquafaba first for 2-3 minutes before slowly adding oil. Temperature matters.
RECOMMENDED BRANDS:
Canned chickpeas, OGGS Aquafaba
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RATIO:
200g silken tofu + 1/2 cup oil + 2 tbsp lemon juice
BEST FOR:
BAKING CONTEXT:
Not ideal for baking.
💡 PRO TIPS:
Use silken (not firm) tofu. Add mustard powder for tanginess.
RECOMMENDED BRANDS:
Mori-Nu Silken Tofu, House Organic Tofu
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RATIO:
1:1 replacement
BEST FOR:
BAKING CONTEXT:
Not for baking.
💡 PRO TIPS:
Most convenient option. Brands keep improving in taste.
RECOMMENDED BRANDS:
Just Mayo, Hellmann's Vegan
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RATIO:
1 cup soaked cashews + 1/4 cup lemon juice + 1/2 cup water
BEST FOR:
BAKING CONTEXT:
Not for baking.
💡 PRO TIPS:
Soak cashews 4 hours or use hot water for 30 minutes. Add garlic for extra flavor.
RECOMMENDED BRANDS:
Raw cashews, California Gold Nutrition
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| Substitute | Best For | Texture Result | Flavor | Cost per Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cashew Cream | Creamy dips, spreads, salad dressings | Ultra-smooth, thick and rich | Mild, slightly nutty undertone | $0.75 - $1.25 |
| Silken Tofu Blend | Cold sauces, sandwich spreads | Light, airy, slightly grainy | Neutral, can be seasoned easily | $0.50 - $0.90 |
| Avocado Mash | Sandwiches, toast, quick spreads | Creamy, dense, slightly chunky | Rich, buttery, slightly tangy | $1.25 - $2.00 |
| Aquafaba Emulsion | Dressings, light sauces | Smooth, whipped, airy consistency | Very neutral, takes on added flavors | $0.25 - $0.60 |
| Store-Bought Vegan Mayo | All-purpose replacement | Identical to traditional mayo | Very close to original mayonnaise | $3.50 - $5.00 |
Quick Decision Guide: Choose cashew cream for rich dips, silken tofu for light sauces, avocado for nutrient-dense spreads, aquafaba for budget-friendly options, and store-bought vegan mayo for the closest traditional experience. Consider your specific recipe, dietary needs, and flavor preferences when selecting a substitute.
Best: Silken Tofu Blend, Cashew Cream
Use in: Coleslaw, Potato Salad, Green Salads
Why: Creamy texture with lighter protein-based alternatives that mimic mayo's consistency
Best: Hummus, Avocado Mash
Use in: Veggie Sandwiches, Wraps, Paninis
Why: Provides moisture and flavor with nutrient-dense alternatives
Best: Ground Flaxseed, Aquafaba
Use in: Veggie Burgers, Meatless Loaves, Croquettes
Why: Natural emulsifiers that help hold ingredients together without eggs
Best: Tahini, Coconut Cream
Use in: Pasta Sauces, Dips, Creamy Vegetable Dishes
Why: Rich, smooth alternatives that add depth and complexity to dishes
Why it happens: Incorrect liquid ratios or using water-heavy ingredients without proper emulsification techniques.
✅ The Fix:
Why it happens: Using minimal seasoning or generic plant-based ingredients without depth.
✅ The Fix:
Why it happens: Incompatible ingredient temperatures or improper mixing techniques.
✅ The Fix:
Why it happens: Selecting plant-based ingredients without considering texture and flavor compatibility.
✅ The Fix:
💡 Pro Tip: Vegan mayo is an art form - don't get discouraged! Each batch is a learning experience, and small adjustments can transform your recipe.
Expect a milder flavor profile compared to traditional mayonnaise. Cashew-based alternatives offer a creamy, slightly nutty undertone, while aquafaba versions provide a more neutral taste. Some substitutes might have subtle hints of olive oil or mustard that add complexity to the overall flavor.
Anticipate a range of consistencies from silky smooth to slightly grainy. **Tofu-based** substitutes tend to be denser, while **coconut cream** versions offer a lighter, more spreadable texture. Some alternatives might require brief blending or whisking to achieve optimal smoothness, especially when first prepared.
Most substitutes maintain a classic white to off-white color similar to traditional mayonnaise. Some **plant-based versions** might have a slightly more ivory or pale yellow hue depending on the base ingredients. Expect a glossy, smooth appearance that closely mimics conventional mayonnaise when properly prepared.
✅ Versatile alternatives with similar visual and textural qualities
✅ Multiple base options to suit different dietary needs and preferences
✅ May require slight recipe adjustments for optimal results
✅ Experiment and find the substitute that best matches your culinary expectations
Plant-based mayonnaise alternatives offer diverse options for different dietary needs and flavor preferences.
Recommendation: Experiment with multiple alternatives to find your preferred texture and taste.
Homemade plant-based mayonnaise typically has a shorter shelf life compared to commercial versions.
Recommendation: Make small batches to ensure freshness and optimal taste.
Plant-based alternatives can address multiple allergen concerns, but careful selection is crucial.
Recommendation: Always verify ingredients if you have specific dietary restrictions.
Different plant-based mayonnaise alternatives excel in specific culinary applications.
Recommendation: Match substitute consistency with recipe requirements.
Achieving the right consistency requires precise techniques and ingredient ratios.
Recommendation: Practice and patience are key to mastering plant-based mayonnaise techniques.
Homemade plant-based mayonnaise can be more economical than store-bought alternatives.
Recommendation: Start with simple, budget-friendly recipes and gradually refine techniques.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This tool provides general information about vegan ingredient substitutions based on common cooking practices. Results may vary based on recipe specifics, brands, and cooking methods. Always check ingredient labels for allergens and dietary restrictions. We are not nutritionists or medical professionals. Consult a healthcare provider for specific dietary advice. Some information may be AI-generated — verify critical details with trusted sources.