The Only Mayo Worth Buying, According to Stephen Colbert

We all know Stephen Colbert as the host of CBS’s “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” where he cracks jokes about everything from politics to celebrity drama.

However, one thing Colbert doesn’t joke about is the mayo he prefers. In his recent cookbook, co-authored with his wife Evie McGee Colbert, “Does This Taste Funny? Recipes Our Family Loves,” Colbert offers a glimpse into his family life through food and sets the record straight on the only mayo he swears by.

Stephen Colbert’s Favorite Store-Bought Mayo

In the cookbook, Colbert says he “feels strongly about” the type of mayo he uses, especially for dishes like his Warm Artichoke Dip, which calls for a cup of the stuff. While others may reach for Hellmann’s, Colbert clarifies, “I’m a Duke’s man.”

But what makes Duke’s mayonnaise stand out above Hellmann’s or any other store-bought mayo? According to Colbert, several characteristics make this a bonafide winner in his book.

“Besides the fact that they are a South Carolina company, it is eggier,” says Colbert. “A newly opened jar will often have a ‘crack’ in the mayonnaise as if it were a custard. It also has no sugar.” 

All these attributes added up to make Colbert very serious about his mayo of choice. “There is no contest, in my mayo-slathered opinion.”

But Colbert isn’t the only one who’s a Duke’s devotee. Other food industry big names agree.

Alton Brown, host of “Iron Chef America,” is also a fan. While he loves a good homemade mayo, he says he’ll keep buying store-bought “as long as Duke’s Mayonnaise is made.” Why? “This Carolina classic has plenty of vinegar in it, and that gives it the zing I crave,” Brown adds.

Even celebrity chef Ina Garten of “Barefoot Contessa” has admitted to using a “good-quality store-bought brand” of mayo, like Duke’s. Clearly, this brand is doing something right.