Engel & Völkers Licence Partner Menorca > Blog > The world-famous sauce Mayonnaise originates from Menorca

The world-famous sauce Mayonnaise originates from Menorca

Looking to settle down in Menorca and buy an exclusive house, finca (country house), or apartment on this beautiful Balearic Island? The island offers numerous advantages just waiting to be discovered. One of Menorca's culinary highlights and perhaps its most famous product is the world-renowned Mayonnaise sauce, formerly known by its Spanish name "la mahonesa." In this blog post, real estate agent Engel & Völkers Menorca presents the exciting history of the creation and global expansion of the "mahonesa" sauce by the French, while also introducing an exclusive villa for sale on the island.

The fascinating history of the "mahonesa"

Various nations and populations such as the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Turks have greatly influenced the history and culture of Menorca through wars and trade. From 1756 to 1763, the island was under French rule. According to legend, the French rulers created Mayonnaise based on the traditional Catalan sauce "allioli," which was widespread in Spain at the time, and named it "mahonesa" in commemoration of the French victory over the British in the port of Mahon in 1756. The significant difference between allioli and mahonesa is the absence of garlic in the sauce's preparation. Thanks to the Duc de Richelieu, the use of the sauce spread throughout France and eventually the rest of the world. Over time, the name was adapted to French, and the sauce became known as "mayonnaise."


The cultivation of olives has also spread in Menorca, due to the presence and interest of people from other countries, the olives make the excellent Menorcan olive oil, an essential ingredient for making mayonnaise. The Menorcans take pride in their "mahonesa," which is made with olive oil, eggs, salt, vinegar, or lemon juice and is used in many traditional Menorcan dishes, especially those featuring fish. After purchasing a Mediterranean house or a modern apartment in Menorca, you can indulge in the island's diverse culinary offerings. If you're interested in a mayonnaise workshop, you can participate in one of the cooking courses regularly held in Menorca and learn how to make your own mayonnaise! If you want additional information about the range of properties currently for sale on the island, contact the local real estate agent Engel & Völkers Menorca, we are here to help you find your very own piece of Minorca.

 Mahón
- Purchase a Modern Villa with Breathtaking Views of the Port of Mao and Enjoy traditional Spanish food with Mayonnaise

Buy a modern villa in Menorca and enjoy traditional dishes with the famous "mahonesa" sauce ​

Make Menorca you home, and enjoy the gastronomical wealth of the island with the authentic Mayonnaise sauce. On this occasion real estate agent Engel & Völkers Menorca would like to introduce you to this fabulous newly built villa near Mahon, it is just one of many superb properties in our portfolio. The highlights of this villa are its innovative design and the incredible sea views over the port of Mahón. The property is a top-quality home, distributed over 2 levels and comprising 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, parking, a beautiful swimming pool, and a spectacular terrace off the lounge with stunning views of the sea and the harbour. Our extensive knowledge of the real estate world and our many years of experience are your best tool for finding the home of your dreams. Make the move and begin your dream of an island home in the Med. And enjoy the good life with family and friends. 


Interested in buying this villa near Mahon or looking for something else? Then get in touch with the Engel & Volkers team today.

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Engel & Völkers
Licence Partner Menorca

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