Useful culinary techniques from the world’s most renowned chefs.
Culinary Techniques
Emulsifying

Emulsifying

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Emulsifying is the technique of mixing two or more liquids that don’t mix under normal conditions, such as oil and water. It’s the secret you need to master to make Hollandaise sauce, mayonnaise and many types of vinaigrette.

As a standard, you will be using an oily emulsifier such as egg yolk, honey or mustard, and an ingredient with high acidity such as vinegar or lemon juice.

Use this basic vinaigrette emulsifying recipe as a starting point, changing ingredients to taste to obtain your perfect vinaigrette, dressing or sauce. As a rule, try to keep the ratio of oily and acid ingredients to 2:1.
Instructions:
  • 12 0ml of olive, sesame or any other oil
  • 3 tablespoons of a good vinegar such as balsamic, sesame or rice.
  • 1 tablespoon of mustard
  • Sugar, honey or raspberry preserves to taste (optional)
  • Different herbs such as fresh garlic, oregano, basil and tarragon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Whisk together the vinegar and the mustard until well mixed (you can also add any other acid ingredient such as lemon juice at this point).
  • Slowly begin adding the oil of your choice while whisking vigorously until you reach the desired consistency. This is the key for a smooth vinaigrette in which the oil and the vinegar stay together.
  • Add sugar, honey or raspberry preserves to balance the acidity and make a sweet vinaigrette. Then add salt and pepper to taste, plus the herbs or spices of your choice.
  • Mix well and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.