When you think about Japanese cuisine, images of sushi, ramen, or tempura may be the first to pop into your mind. However, there’s a certain condiment from Japan that has won over the hearts and taste buds of food lovers worldwide – Kewpie Mayo. This mayonnaise is not your typical sandwich spread; it’s a versatile ingredient that has been pivotal to the evolution of the Japanese food culture.
Kewpie Mayo’s unique flavor profile makes it stand-out in the realm of condiments. Unlike its Western counterparts which are typically heavy on egg yolks and vinegar, Kewpie Mayo strikes a perfect balance between creaminess and tanginess, with a hint of umami. This deliciously different taste has led to its widespread use in Japanese cooking, bringing an added depth of flavor to traditional and contemporary dishes alike. You’ve probably enjoyed it without even realizing it, as it’s often used in sushi rolls, okonomiyaki, and even takoyaki!
What is Kewpie Mayo?
Kewpie mayo is a unique type of Japanese mayonnaise made with rice vinegar and roasted sesame oil. It has a much creamier texture than its Western counterparts due to the use of egg yolks, which gives it a richer flavor. Its tangy yet slightly sweet taste comes from the combination of salt, sugar, and MSG. While it is most commonly used as a condiment or dressing, Kewpie Mayo can also be used in a wide variety of dishes including salads, sandwiches, and even desserts.
Kewpie mayo was created during the 1925s by Toichiro Nakashima, who worked for a company that produced seasonings, condiments, and sauces. He wanted to create a mayonnaise that was even creamier and tastier than its Western counterparts, and after many attempts, he finally perfected the recipe for Kewpie Mayo.
What is the Difference Between Kewpie and Regular Mayo?
The main difference between Kewpie and regular mayo is in its flavor profile. Kewpie Mayo has a richer, creamier texture due to the use of egg yolks and rice vinegar, and it also has a hint of sweetness from the combination of salt, sugar, and MSG. This gives it an unmistakably unique taste that sets it apart from other mayos.
Kewpie Mayo also has a higher fat content than regular mayo, making it better suited for dishes that require more moisture or creaminess. It is often used as an ingredient in dressings, sauces, and dipping sauces, whereas regular mayo is typically used as a condiment.

What does Kewpie Taste Like?
Kewpie Mayo has a distinct, creamy texture and a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from regular mayo. It is slightly tangy, with a hint of sweetness from the combination of salt, sugar, and MSG. Its umami-rich taste comes from the use of roasted sesame oil which adds an extra layer of deliciousness to any dish it is used in.
Kewpie Mayo can be used as a condiment, but its versatility goes beyond just sandwiches and salads. Its mild yet flavorful taste makes it great for use in dressings, sauces, dips, and even desserts!
Iconic Japanese Dishes with Kewpie Mayonnaise
Kewpie Mayo is an indispensable ingredient in Japanese cooking, often used to enhance the flavor of many iconic Japanese dishes. Here are some examples:
- Okonomiyaki: Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake made with batter and cabbage. The dish is topped with a generous dollop of Kewpie Mayo, which adds a delicious umami richness.
- Takoyaki: This mouth-watering dish is made with octopus, dashi, and batter that’s formed into small balls and cooked in a special takoyaki pan. Kewpie Mayo is used to give the takoyaki an extra layer of flavor.
- Sushi rolls: Sushi rolls are a popular Japanese dish usually made with sushi rice, seaweed, and various fillings. Kewpie Mayo is often used to add a creamy umami flavor.
- Natto: Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. It has an acquired taste, but when combined with Kewpie Mayo it becomes much more palatable.
Kewpie Mayo is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes to add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess. It’s no wonder why it has become such a beloved condiment in Japan!
Where to Buy Kewpie Mayo
Kewpie Mayo is widely available in Asian supermarkets and online retailers. You can find it in many forms, from traditional jars to convenient squeeze bottles. It’s also available in a variety of flavors such as honey mustard and garlic – perfect for adding a bit of zest to your dishes.
Whether you’re looking for an extra flavor boost or just want to try something new, Kewpie Mayo is sure to bring unique umami and creaminess to your cooking. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
What can I Sub for Kewpie Mayo?
Kewpie Mayo has a unique flavor profile that can’t be replicated by using regular mayo. However, if you don’t have Kewpie to hand, you can substitute it with other condiments such as soy sauce, miso paste, or even Hoisin sauce. These all have a distinct umami taste that will still give your dish an extra layer of flavor.
Kewpie Mayo Substitutes
- Soy sauce
- Miso paste
- Hoisin sauce
- Mayonnaise and sesame oil
- Cream cheese and lemon juice
- Greek yogurt and garlic powder.
Kewpie Mayo is an indispensable ingredient in Japanese cooking and a delicious condiment for many dishes. Its unique flavor profile makes it stand out from other mayos, and its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of dishes. So go ahead and give Kewpie Mayo a try – you won’t be disappointed!
How to Use Kewpie Mayo
Kewpie Mayo can be used in a variety of dishes such as salads, sandwiches, and dressings. It’s also great for adding an extra layer of flavor to cooked dishes like okonomiyaki or takoyaki. Here are some tips on how to use Kewpie Mayo:
- Use it as a dip or dressing. Kewpie Mayo is delicious when used as a dip for fried foods such as tempura or takoyaki or as a dressing on salads.
- Use it in sauces and marinades. Kewpie Mayo can be used to add richness and flavor to sauces and marinades. Try adding it to teriyaki sauce or use it instead of mayo in your favorite recipes.
- Use it as a topping. Kewpie Mayo is perfect for adding a creamy, umami flavor to dishes like sushi or fried rice. Try using it as a topping instead of regular mayo for an extra kick!
Kewpie Mayo’s versatility makes it the perfect condiment for any dish. From salads and sandwiches to cooked dishes and even desserts, Kewpie Mayo is sure to add an extra layer of flavor to your cooking. So give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
What is Kewpie Mayo Good On?
Kewpie Mayo is a versatile condiment that can be used on a variety of dishes. Its unique flavor profile makes it perfect for adding an extra layer of umami and creaminess to salads, sandwiches, sushi rolls, okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and even desserts. Kewpie Mayo is also great for making sauces and marinades or as a dip for fried foods. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
The Difference Between Japanese and American Kewpie Mayo
The major difference between Japanese and American Kewpie Mayo is in their flavor profile. Japanese Kewpie Mayo has a distinctive umami taste that comes from the combination of salt, sugar, and MSG, whereas American Kewpie Mayo is mostly made with egg yolks and vinegar which gives it a tangier flavor.
Japanese Kewpie Mayo also has a higher fat content than American Kewpie, making it better suited for dishes that require more moisture or creaminess. Furthermore, Japanese Kewpie Mayo is often used as an ingredient in dressings and sauces whereas American Kewpie Mayo is typically used as a condiment.
Kewpie Mayo Recipe Ideas
Kewpie Mayo can be used in a variety of dishes to add an extra layer of flavor. So, here are some creative ways to use Kewpie Mayo for cooking:
Ingredients
- Kewpie Mayo
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Garlic powder
- Ginger powder
Recipes
- Mix equal parts Kewpie Mayo, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to make a delicious dressing for salads or grilled vegetables. Add sesame oil and garlic powder to taste.
- Make a marinade for grilled meats or tofu by combining Kewpie Mayo, soy sauce, and rice vinegar with a pinch of ginger powder.
- Whip up a creamy dip for fried foods by mixing Kewpie Mayo, sesame oil, garlic powder, and soy sauce.
- Use Kewpie Mayo as a substitute for mayonnaise in your favorite recipes like egg salad or tuna salad.
Kewpie Mayo is a versatile ingredient that can be used to add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess to your cooking. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Estimated Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 90 calories per tablespoon
- Fat: 6.7g per tablespoon
- Carbohydrates: 2.3g per tablespoon
- Protein: 0.3g per tablespoon
- Sodium: 93mg per tablespoon
Kewpie Mayo is a delicious and nutritious condiment that can be used to add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess to your cooking. Whether you’re looking for an added boost of flavor or just want to try something different, Kewpie Mayo is sure to bring a unique umami taste to any dish.

Conclusion
Kewpie Mayo is a unique type of Japanese mayonnaise that has become popular worldwide. Its creamier texture and unique flavor profile make it stand out from other mayos, and its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of dishes ranging from salads and sandwiches to cooked dishes and even desserts.
Kewpie Mayo is a nutritious and delicious condiment that can be used to enhance the flavor of many iconic Japanese dishes. Its unique taste has made it an indispensable ingredient in Japanese cooking, and its versatility makes it perfect for adding an extra layer of umami flavor to any dish. So go ahead and give Kewpie Mayo a try – you won’t be disappointed!
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FAQs
What is Kewpie Mayo made of?
Kewpie Mayo is made of egg yolks, rice vinegar, roasted sesame oil, sugar, salt, and MSG.
Why is Kewpie Mayo so popular?
Kewpie Mayo is popular because of its unique flavor profile. Its creamy texture and deliciously different taste have made it stand-out in the realm of condiments.
Where can I buy Kewpie Mayo?
Kewpie Mayo is widely available in Asian supermarkets and online retailers. It is also available in a variety of flavors such as honey mustard and garlic.
How is Kewpie Mayo different from regular mayo?
Kewpie Mayo has a richer, creamier texture due to the use of egg yolks and rice vinegar. And it also has a hint of sweetness from the combination of salt, sugar, and MSG.
What dishes can I use Kewpie Mayo with?
Kewpie Mayo can be used in a variety of dishes such as salads, sandwiches, dressings, sauces, marinades, dips, and even desserts.