When it comes to condiments, store-bought Miracle Whip is a household favorite for its tangy, creamy flavor. But have you ever stopped to wonder what’s really in that jar? With added sugars, unhealthy oils, and artificial preservatives, the ingredient list can be a little unsettling. The good news? Making your own Miracle Whip at home is not only simple but also healthier and more delicious.
Why Make Your Own Miracle Whip?
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Healthier Ingredients:
Homemade Miracle Whip uses avocado oil, a heart-healthy fat, compared to the refined seed oils often found in store-bought versions. -
No Additives or Preservatives:
You’re in control of what goes into your Miracle Whip, ensuring it’s free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. -
Customizable Flavor:
Want it sweeter? Add more sugar. Prefer more tang? Adjust the vinegar or lemon juice. -
Better Taste:
Fresh, real ingredients mean your homemade Miracle Whip will have a brighter, cleaner flavor than anything from the store.
What’s in Traditional Miracle Whip?
If you’ve ever looked at the ingredient list on a jar of traditional Miracle Whip, you may have noticed some surprising additions. Here’s a breakdown of what’s commonly found:
- Water
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Soybean Oil – A heavily processed oil that’s cheap to produce and widely used in processed foods. It’s extracted with chemical solvents like hexane and refined at high temperatures, which can destroy nutrients and produce harmful byproducts. High in omega-6 fatty acids, it promotes inflammation when consumed in excess, disrupting the body’s natural balance of omega-3s and omega-6s. Over time, this imbalance has been linked to chronic health issues like heart disease, obesity, and autoimmune disorders. Soybean oil is often genetically modified, adding concerns about pesticide exposure and environmental impact.
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High Fructose Corn Syrup – A concentrated sweetener that can cause blood sugar spikes.
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Vinega
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Modified Cornstarch – A thickener that’s processed and offers no nutritional value.
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Eggs
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Salt
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Natural Flavor – A vague term that can hide numerous undisclosed chemicals.
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Mustard Flour
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Potassium Sorbate – A synthetic preservative added to prevent mold and yeast growth, extending the shelf life of processed foods. While deemed safe by regulatory agencies in small amounts, it’s still a chemical additive. Frequent exposure through multiple processed foods may contribute to unnecessary chemical intake, and some people report mild allergies or skin sensitivities. It offers no nutritional value—just a longer expiration date.
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Paprika
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Spice – Another catch-all term for ingredients that may not be disclosed.
- Dried Garlic
Many of these ingredients are processed, artificial, or unnecessary. If you want to learn more about how “Natural Flavor” and other types of additives can impact your health, check out our blog post: 7 Surprising Ingredients Hiding in Your Pantry That Could Be Affecting Your Health.
How to Use Homemade Miracle Whip
Your homemade Miracle Whip is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes:
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Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread it on sourdough bread, homemade tortillas, or lettuce wraps for a creamy, tangy kick.
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Salads: Use it as a base for coleslaw, potato salad, or pasta salad.
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Dips: Mix it with your favorite herbs or spices for a quick and delicious dip.
- Marinades: Combine it with seasonings to create a flavorful marinade for chicken or fish.
Affiliate Disclosure & Ingredients We Love
Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our blog!
Quick Links to Ingredients We Love:
- Avocado Oil – A heart-healthy oil with a mild flavor that’s perfect for this recipe.
- Organic Dry Mustard – Adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor we can’t get enough of.
- Organic Paprika – Brings just the right hint of smokiness and color to the mix.
- Organic Garlic Powder – A must-have for its savory, well-rounded flavor.
- Organic Cane Sugar – A natural sweetener that balances the tanginess beautifully.
- Redmond Real Salt – Enhances every ingredient and ties the flavors together perfectly.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whisk the Base: In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolk vigorously for about 15 seconds until it becomes slightly frothy.
- Prepare the Vinegar Solution: In a small bowl or measuring cup, mix the vinegar, sugar, salt, and lemon juice. Stir well until the sugar and salt completely dissolve. Pour half of this mixture into the egg yolk and whisk again for another 15 seconds.
- Emulsify the Oil: Pour the avocado oil into a container with a spout, such as a measuring cup or oil dispenser. While continuously whisking the egg yolk mixture, slowly drizzle in the oil, starting with just a few drops at a time. Gradually add more oil in small amounts while whisking steadily. Once the mixture begins to thicken and you’ve added about half the oil, whisk in the remaining vinegar mixture along with the mustard, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Finish the Emulsion: Continue adding the rest of the oil in a slow, steady stream while whisking until the dressing is smooth and fully emulsified.
- Store and Chill: Transfer your homemade Miracle Whip to a clean jar with a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using to allow the flavors to meld. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 to 10 days.
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg yolk and oil are at room temperature for easier emulsification. Cold ingredients may cause the mixture to break. Blender/Food Processor Shortcut: If whisking by hand sounds like too much work, use an immersion blender or food processor for quick, effortless emulsification. Consistency Fix: If the mixture gets too thick, thin it out with 1-2 teaspoons of water or vinegar. Egg Safety: Since this recipe uses raw egg yolk, opt for pasteurized eggs if food safety is a concern. Flavor Tweaks: For an extra flavor boost, experiment with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a touch of Dijon mustard.
