Shelf-stable acidified aerated food emulsion

Packaged aerated acidified food compositions (e.g., aerated dips, sauces, etc.) having a low density (e.g., 0.4 to 0.8 g/cm3) due to incorporation of gas bubbles (e.g., nitrogen or air) within an aerated matrix. In addition to the aerated matrix the composition further includes a relatively high fraction of oil (e.g., as an oil/water emulsion). The compositions are shelf-stable, so as to exhibit microbial stability and stability with respect to the aerated low density "whipped" texture, without requiring refrigeration. The composition includes the aerating gas (e.g., nitrogen or air), a protein (e.g., soy or dairy), a stabilizer (e.g., a hydrocolloid, a cyclodextrin, a monoglyceride, and/or a diglyceride), oil, water, an emulsifier, and a food grade acid. Flavors, spices, and other components may be included.