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You are here: Home / Recipes / Courses / Dips and Sauces / Peri Peri Mayonnaise Recipe – Copycat Perinaise

Dips and Sauces, Movie Night Food, Spicy Food · August 16, 2023

Peri Peri Mayonnaise Recipe – Copycat Perinaise

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A Pinterest Graphic for Perinaise with an overhead view of a bowl of it on top of fries.

If you love the tastes of Nando’s Famous Peri-Peri, this dip is for you. Our Peri-Peri Mayonnaise recipe is a quick and easy recipe that’s ready in under 5 minutes. Flavoured with the secret ingredient of homemade peri peri seasoning and zesty lemon juice, this condiment adds a punch of unique taste to your dishes.  Create your own homemade Peri-Peri Mayonnaise to accompany your meals.

Page Contents

  • Why You’ll Love This Nando’s Peri Peri Mayo Recipe
  • Equipment Needed
  • Ingredients
  • Additions and Substitutions
  • Step-By-Step How To Make Peri Peri Mayonnaise – Copycat Perinaise
  • Serving Suggestions
  • FAQ
  • Pro Tips and Guidance
  • Storage
  • Check Out These Nando’s Copycat Recipes
  • Easy Peri Peri Mayonnaise (Perinaise)
    • Ingredients MetricUS Customary 1x2x3x
    • Instructions
    • Recipe Notes
    • Nutrition Estimate
A hand dipping a fry into the Perinaise dip.

This slightly spicy dip features a homemade Peri-Peri seasoning blend, that is spiced with Peri-Peri chillies, also known as African Bird’s Eye chilli and cayenne pepper and complemented by the warmth of paprika extract and the piquancy of white pepper. This spicy seasoning mix creates a harmony of flavours, that goes well with a multitude of dishes.

Our Peri-Peri Mayonnaise is accentuated by the zesty flavours of fresh lemon juice and the addition of oregano adds a subtle herbal note, enhancing the overall complexity of this delicious dipping sauce.

For optimal results, allow the flavours to enhance over a couple of hours, to take this creamy mayonnaise dip to the next level. Whether you’re using it as a dip, a spread in a toasted Portuguese bread bun, flavouring a butterfly chicken burger, or a zesty accompaniment to Spicy fries, our Peri-Peri Mayonnaise is full of bold flavours.

If you love the flavours of a Nando’s takeaway, why not make your own at home with this copycat Perinaise recipe, the perfect blend of flavours with the spiciness of peri-peri offset by the creaminess of the mayonnaise .

Why You’ll Love This Nando’s Peri Peri Mayo Recipe

  • Burst of Flavour: Infused with the zesty tang of fresh lemon juice and the robust punch of Peri Peri seasoning, this mayo is a packed with flavour.

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 5 minutes, this recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy schedules.

  • Versatile Enjoyment: Enhance your dishes with this slightly spicy, creamy mayo. It’s ideal for dipping, drizzling, and adding a lively twist to your meals.
An overhead view of the Peri Peri Mayonnaise in a  white bowl on top of a pile of Peri Peri fries.

Equipment Needed

  • Bowl: A medium-sized bowl will be used to mix and combine the ingredients. Choose a bowl with enough space to comfortably mix without any spillage.
  • Whisk or Spoon: You’ll need a whisk or a spoon to blend the ingredients together smoothly. A whisk can help create a homogenous mixture, while a spoon can work just as well for thorough mixing.
  • Measuring Spoons and cups: Measuring spoons and measuring cups are essential to ensure accurate amounts of ingredients, especially for items like lemon juice, peri peri seasoning, and oregano.
  • Cover or Clingfilm: You’ll need something to cover the bowl tightly while the Peri-Peri Mayonnaise is resting in the fridge. Clingfilm or a fitted lid can keep the flavours intact as they meld together.
  • Refrigerator: The fridge is key to letting the flavours of the Peri-Peri Mayonnaise enhance. It provides a cool environment that allows the ingredients to meld and develop their full taste potential.
  • Pestle and Mortar (optional): To really bring out the flavours in the peri peri seasoning, I recommend crushing it into a fine powder just before you add it to the peri peri mayo. However, this isn’t essential.

Ingredients

A labelled photo of the ingredients needed.
  • Mayonnaise: Creamy and rich, mayonnaise forms the base of this dip. It adds a smooth texture and luxurious creaminess to the dip.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a tangy and zesty flavour that balances the richness of the mayonnaise. It provides a refreshing and bright note to the dip.
  • Peri Peri Seasoning: This spice blend is the star of the show, bringing heat and depth of flavour to the dip. My homemade version of peri-peri seasoning is combination of cayenne pepper, Peri-Peri chillies (also known as African bird’s eye chillies) and a blend of different herbs and spices. It’s responsible for the dip’s signature spicy kick.
  • Oregano: Dried oregano adds an earthy and slightly herbaceous aroma to the dip. It compliments the spice blend and provides a subtle layer of flavour.

Additions and Substitutions

Additions:

  • Fresh Herbs: Enhance the dip’s flavour by adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives. These herbs will contribute a burst of freshness and colour.
  • Garlic: For an extra layer of savoury complexity, finely mince a small clove of garlic and mix it into the mayonnaise. The garlic puree pairs wonderfully with the Peri-Peri seasoning.
  • Sriracha Sauce: If you’re looking for an even spicier kick, add a small amount of Sriracha sauce to the dip. It will intensify the heat and add a hint of garlic and tanginess.
  • Spiciness Level: Adjust the spiciness to suit your tastes, you can add more seasoning or a touch of cayenne pepper or a pinch of chilli flakes to intensify the heat, or if you prefer a slightly spicy dip, you can reduce the amount of seasoning you use.
  • Black Pepper – Add a pinch of black pepper to the mix for extra seasoning.  
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – ​Add a drizzle to give your mayo some extra richness.
  • Red or Green Chillies – For an optional extra, decorate the top with chopped green or red chillies to wow your guests. 

Substitutions:

  • Vegan Mayonnaise: Swap out traditional mayonnaise for vegan mayonnaise to make this dip suitable for a plant-based diet. Vegan mayo is made using plant-based oils and emulsifiers and provides a creamy texture.
  • Fresh Oregano: Instead of dried oregano, use freshly chopped oregano leaves. The fresh herb will bring a vibrant and aromatic quality to the dip. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano in place of the dried oregano.
  • Lime Juice: If you prefer a slightly different citrus flavour, you can substitute lime juice for lemon juice. Lime juice will add a tangy and slightly different dimension to the dip.

Step-By-Step How To Make Peri Peri Mayonnaise – Copycat Perinaise

A hand mixing in the lemon juice to the mayonnaise.
A bowl of mayonnaise with the extra ingredients placed in piles on the surface.

Step 1: Mixing the Flavours

  • In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Peri Peri seasoning, and dried oregano.
  • Stir the mixture thoroughly until the ingredients meld into a harmonious blend.

Step 2: Enhancing the Taste

  • Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate it for a couple of hours.
  • Let the flavours meld, allowing the Peri Peri Mayonnaise to reach its full potential.
A hand stirring in the herbs and spices to the mayonnaise.
The peri peri mayonnaise being stirred with the ingredients fully incorporated.

Serving Suggestions

  • Dipping Sauce: Serve the Peri-Peri Mayonnaise as a dipping sauce for a variety of snacks such as chicken tenders, peri peri chips, or vegetable sticks.
  • Burgers and Sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of the mayo on burgers like this Nando’s Chicken burger, sandwiches, or wraps for an extra kick of flavour and creaminess.
  • Grilled Meats: Use the Peri-Peri Mayonnaise as a condiment for grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or seafood. It adds a zesty and spicy element to your dishes.
  • Salad Dressing: Thin out the mayo with a bit of extra lemon juice or apple vinegar to create a tangy dressing for salads. It works particularly well with mixed greens or you can create a peri peri coleslaw.
  • Tacos and Tostadas: Drizzle the peri peri mayo over tacos or tostadas to elevate the flavours with its spiciness and creaminess.
  • Vegetable Dips: Use the mayo as a dip for roasted or grilled vegetables. It adds depth and flavour to the veggies.
  • Wraps and Burritos: Enhance the taste of your wraps or burritos by adding a dollop of Peri-Peri Mayonnaise for that extra burst of flavour.
  • Potato Dishes: Use it as a topping for baked or mashed potatoes, or mix it into potato salads for a unique twist.
  • Seafood: Pair this perinaise recipe with seafood dishes like shrimp cocktail or fish tacos for a delightful contrast of flavours.
  • Finger Foods: Present the mayo alongside an array of finger foods during parties and gatherings for guests to enjoy.

A hand dipping a potato chip in a little bowl of Peri Peri Mayonnaise with a bowl of chips and a burger in the background.

FAQ

How long should I let the flavours meld in the refrigerator?

For the best results, allow the Peri-Peri Mayonnaise to sit in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. This time allows the flavours to combine and intensify, creating a more harmonious taste.

Can I freeze the Peri-Peri Mayonnaise to extend its shelf life?

Unfortunately, this homemade Perinaise recipe isn’t suitable for freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing. It’s recommended to consume it within a few days of preparation for the freshest experience.

Can I make a larger batch of this Peri-Peri Mayonnaise for a gathering?

Certainly! Simply multiply the ingredients while maintaining the ratios. Whether it’s a family dinner or a party, you can easily scale up the recipe to suit your needs.


Pro Tips and Guidance

  • Balancing Heat: Adjust the amount of Peri-Peri seasoning according to your preferred spice level. You can increase the heat with the addition of cayenne pepper or chilli flakes.
  • Crush the seasoning: Bring out the flavours of the spicy seasoning by crushing it with a pestle and mortar before adding it to the mayonnaise.
  • Fresh Citrus: For the best flavour, use freshly squeezed lemon juice. It adds a bright and tangy element that enhances the overall taste of the mayonnaise.
  • Marinating Time: Allow the flavours to meld and intensify by letting the mayo sit in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving. This resting period enhances the taste and ensures a well-infused dip.
  • Creaminess: Choose a good quality, creamy mayonnaise as the base. It contributes to the smooth texture and rich consistency of the Peri-Peri Mayonnaise.
  • Stir Before Use: Before each use, give the mayo a gentle stir to ensure that the flavours are evenly distributed

A hand placing a bowl of Mayonnaise on top of a pile of fries.

Storage

Refrigeration: Once prepared, store the Peri-Peri Mayonnaise in an airtight container in the fridge. The cold temperature will help preserve its freshness and flavours. For optimal taste and quality, consume the Peri-Peri Mayonnaise within 3 to 4 days of making. As time passes, the flavours may intensify, making it even more delicious as they meld together.

Freezing: Please note that this mayonnaise is not suitable for freezing, as the texture and consistency may be compromised upon thawing. It’s recommended to enjoy this dip freshly made or within its refrigerated shelf life for the best experience.

Remember, because this dip contains fresh lemon juice and mayonnaise, it’s best stored in the refrigerator to ensure its safety and maintain its creamy texture.


Check Out These Nando’s Copycat Recipes

A hand holding a baked Portuguese Bun up to the camera.

Nandos Style Portuguese Buns – Papo Seco Bread Rolls

These delicious soft bread rolls are perfect for toasting and spreading with Perinaise before adding in your burger fillings.

A Butterfly chicken burger sat on a wooden board with Perinaise sauce spilling out of the side.

Butterfly Chicken Burger – Copycat Nando’s Peri Peri Recipe

Have the perfect fake-away at home and make these spicy chicken burgers, just like Nando’s.

An overhead view of Peri Peri fries in a black baking tin to the left next to dried chillis and a pot peri peri mayonnaise to the right.

Peri Peri Fries

Crispy oven baked fries that you can use to dip into our peri peri Mayonnaise, the two recipes are the perfect pair.

An overhead view of the Peri Peri Mayonnaise in a white bowl on top of a pile of Peri Peri fries.

Easy Peri Peri Mayonnaise (Perinaise)

5 from 8 votes
Prepared in less than 5 minutes. This recipe for Peri Peri Mayonnaise is the perfect dipping sauce for spicing up a multitude of dishes, from fries to burgers and grilled meats. It's super versatile and so easy to make.
Print Recipe Pin Rate
Course: dip, Side Dish
Cuisine: Portuguese
Keyword: perinaise, piri piri dip, spicy mayonnasie
Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes minutes
Marinating: 2 hours hours
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 256kcal
Author: Rebecca Foxley

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • 1 tbsp Peri Peri seasoning, see our homemade recipe.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano

Instructions

  • Place the mayonnaise into a bowl.
  • Add the lemon juice and stir through until combined.
  • Add the Peri Peri seasoning and dried oregano and stir through thoroughly.
  • Cover the bowl with clingfilm and place in the fridge for a couple of hours to allow the flavours to enhance.

Recipe Notes

See the recipe post for more detailed guidance and instructions. 
 
  • Spice Control: Adjust Peri-Peri seasoning to taste, balancing heat with cayenne pepper or chilli flakes.
  • Crush for Flavour: Crush seasoning before adding, using a mortar and pestle for enhanced taste.
  • Fresh Citrus Kick: Opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice for a zesty lift in flavour.
  • Let Flavours Fuse: Allow mayo to rest in the fridge for a couple of hours to intensify flavours.
  • Creamy Base: Use quality, creamy mayo for smooth texture and rich consistency.
  • Stir Before Enjoying: Give the mayo a gentle stir before use to evenly distribute flavours.
 
 
 

Nutrition Estimate

Calories: 256kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 17g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 237mg | Potassium: 17mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 30IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 0.2mg

Posted In: Dips and Sauces, Movie Night Food, Spicy Food

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About Photo
Hey! My name is Rebecca and I am the recipe developer and photographer here at This Little Home. I aim to bring you tried and true recipes that the whole family will love, inspired by cuisines all over the world.

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