Ingredients:

  • 1 ¼ cups (285g) high-quality mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tbsp water

Instructions:

  1. Melt the butter. Place 1 tbsp unsalted butter in a small dish and microwave for 15-20 seconds until liquid. Note: Let it cool slightly so it doesn't break the mayo.
  2. Combine the base. In your mixing bowl, add 1 ¼ cups (285g) high-quality mayonnaise and the melted butter.
  3. Add the color. Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste. Whisk until the mixture is a uniform pale orange pink.
  4. Incorporate acidity and sweetness. Pour in 1 tbsp rice vinegar and 1 tbsp granulated sugar.
  5. Season the mix. Add 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp onion powder, and ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper.
  6. Thin the consistency. Add 2 tbsp water to the bowl. Note: This helps the sugar dissolve and creates the perfect pouring texture.
  7. Whisk vigorously. Continue whisking for about 60 seconds until the sauce is silky and no spice clumps remain.
  8. The Resting Phase. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Wait until the flavors meld and the color deepens slightly.