Is it ok to heat mayonnaise?

* Safety: Mayonnaise is an emulsion of oil, eggs, and vinegar. Heating it can cause the oil to separate, making it look and taste unpleasant. It can also create an environment where bacteria can thrive, potentially making it unsafe to consume.

* Texture: The creamy texture of mayonnaise is due to the way the ingredients are emulsified. Heat can break down this emulsion, resulting in a watery and grainy texture.

* Flavor: Heating mayonnaise can alter its flavor, making it taste bitter or metallic.

Exceptions:

* Some recipes call for cooking mayonnaise briefly, like in certain sauces or dressings. However, these recipes typically involve adding other ingredients that help stabilize the emulsion and prevent separation.

* Mayonnaise-based sauces that are cooked thoroughly, like aioli, are generally safe to consume.

Best practice: If you want to add a creamy texture to a hot dish, consider using alternatives like sour cream, Greek yogurt, or aioli.

Bottom line: While there are some exceptions, it's generally best to avoid heating mayonnaise.