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by Restaurants Expert
- July 7, 2026
Have you heard of Japanese-style mayonnaise? Thanks to its rich, bold flavor and quality ingredients, this type of mayo has been growing in popularity worldwide. Even if you’re a verified mayo hater, many people who dislike western-style mayonnaise find that they enjoy the Japanese variety.
Whether you’re already a fan or trying it for the first time, here are some creative ways to incorporate Japanese mayo (and organic mayo) into your daily repertoire.
What Makes Japanese Mayo Unique?
Compared to traditional Western versions of mayonnaise, the Japanese version is richer, creamier and slightly sweeter. Its taste reflects Japanese cuisine’s preference for balanced flavors with milder vinegar, more sweetness and stronger umami notes. The unique qualities of Japanese mayonnaise owe largely to its use of only egg yolks instead of whole eggs.
In Japan, mayo is more than just a dressing for salads and sandwiches. It appears on all kinds of foods, including sushi, pasta, pizza and even pancakes and ice cream with KEWPIE being a particular favorite brand. This mayo has a texture that helps it hold its shape when drizzled on top of a dish as a flavorful condiment and decorative topping.
Everyday Dishes That Improve with Japanese Mayo
While Japanese mayo is tailored to the flavors of Japanese cuisine, you can also use it on your favorite everyday dishes. Try using it wherever you would use western-style mayonnaise. This unique mayo is a delicious alternative for sandwiches, burgers, potato salad and more.
Seafood dishes lend themselves especially well to the flavor profile of Japanese-style mayo. It’s particularly delicious in tuna or seafood salad, poke bowls and crab-stuffed mushrooms. You can even use it to make tarter sauce.
Creative Recipes Using KEWPIE Mayo
Are you ready to get creative in the kitchen? Pick up some KEWPIE Mayo, and try out
new recipes. Here are some simple and delicious dishes you can make when you want to create something different for dinner.
Spicy Mayo
Mix KEWPIE Mayo with sriracha, sesame oil, Japanese rice wine and chili powder. If you want to skip the prep work, KEWPIE also makes ready-made spicy mayo.
Dipping Sauce
Mix KEWPIE Mayo with garlic, lemon or vinegar to create a simple dipping sauce that goes well with fish, chicken or crispy tofu.
Drizzle Over Your Favorites
Whether you’re ordering out or making them yourself, Japanese favorites like Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki and roasted vegetables are always a little better with a drizzle of KEWPIE mayo on top.
Japanese Mayo vs. Organic Mayo, Explained
Japanese mayonnaise is characterized by its mild, umami flavor, while organic mayo is any mayo made with organic ingredients. Organic mayo can be either Western or Japanese style.
For those who prefer mayo made with organic ingredients, the good news is that KEWPIE offers an organic version of their classic mayo. KEWPIE Organic Mayo is made with organic egg yolks, no high-fructose syrup and all the traditional flavor you love.
Where to Buy Japanese Mayo
If you want to try Japanese-style mayo for yourself, you don’t have to look far. You can buy it at most supermarkets, specialty grocery stores and online retailers. KEWPIE Mayo is widely available in stores as well as on their website.
From its unique flavor and texture to its high-quality ingredients, there are many reasons to give Japanese mayo a try. Add it to your old favorites, or use it in creative new recipes. A bottle of KEWPIE will soon become a staple in your kitchen.
