Nona's Creamy Sesame Dressing with a Japanese Twist
Inspired by my father's favorite Japanese restaurant's creamy sesame dressing, this homemade version captures the essence of the beloved original without the artificial flavors and preservatives. Rich and velvety, this dressing combines the nutty flavor of roasted sesame seeds with the umami of soy sauce and a hint of sweetness from mirin. With its balanced acidity from rice vinegar and a touch of garlic and mustard for depth, this dressing is perfect for salads, grilled meats, or as a dip for fresh vegetables. It's easy to make, naturally delicious, and will have your taste buds singing, all while keeping your dad's wallet happy!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
mayonnaise
1/2 cup (none)
soy sauce
1 tablespoon (none)
mirin
2 tablespoons (none)
sugar or sugar substitute
1 tablespoon (none)
sesame paste or tahini
1 tablespoon (none)
roasted sesame seeds, partially ground
1 tablespoon (grind in a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle)
rice vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
sesame oil
1 teaspoon (none)
garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (none)
mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon (none)
kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon (none)
ajinomoto (accent) (optional)
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Tabasco sauce (optional)
1-2 dashes (none)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, soy sauce, mirin, sugar (or sugar substitute), sesame paste (or tahini), partially ground roasted sesame seeds, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, mustard powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
2
If desired, add ajinomoto (accent) for extra flavor and a dash of Tabasco sauce for a hint of heat.
3
Using a whisk or blender, blend all the ingredients until smooth and well incorporated, making sure to leave some texture from the sesame seeds.
4
Transfer the dressing into a clean jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5
Serve chilled and enjoy this versatile dressing on your favorite salads or as a dip!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nona's Creamy Sesame Dressing with a Japanese Twist?
It is a rich and velvety homemade dressing inspired by Japanese restaurant flavors, combining roasted sesame seeds, soy sauce, and mirin.
What inspired this recipe?
The recipe was inspired by the creator's father's favorite Japanese restaurant's creamy sesame dressing.
Is this dressing healthier than store-bought versions?
Yes, it captures the essence of the original without the artificial flavors and preservatives found in many commercial brands.
What are the primary flavor profiles?
The dressing features nutty roasted sesame, umami soy sauce, sweet mirin, and balanced acidity from rice vinegar.
Can this dressing be made vegan?
The recipe is tagged as having a vegan option, which would involve using a vegan mayonnaise substitute.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 14 ingredients in total, including optional items like Ajinomoto and Tabasco.
What is the base of the dressing?
The base of the dressing is a half cup of mayonnaise.
Can I use tahini instead of sesame paste?
Yes, the recipe allows for either sesame paste or tahini.
How should I prepare the roasted sesame seeds?
The seeds should be partially ground using a coffee grinder or a mortar and pestle.
What type of vinegar is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar.
Is there a spicy element in the dressing?
An optional 1-2 dashes of Tabasco sauce can be added for a hint of heat.
What provides the umami flavor?
The umami comes from soy sauce and the optional addition of Ajinomoto (MSG).
How do I mix the ingredients?
You can use a whisk or a blender to blend all ingredients until smooth and well incorporated.
Should the dressing be completely smooth?
While blended until smooth, you should leave some texture from the partially ground sesame seeds.
How long should the dressing refrigerate before serving?
It should be refrigerated for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
What is the best way to store the dressing?
Store it in a clean jar or an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with this sesame dressing?
It is perfect for salads, grilled meats, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
Does the recipe use fresh garlic?
No, the recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for depth of flavor.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, the recipe specifically mentions that sugar or a sugar substitute can be used.
What kind of salt is recommended?
The recipe specifies 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt.
What does mustard powder add to the dressing?
Mustard powder is used to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
How much sesame oil is included?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of sesame oil.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is described as an easy dressing that is naturally delicious and simple to prepare.
Can I use this as a dip?
Yes, its creamy and thick texture makes it an excellent dip for vegetables.
What is the purpose of mirin in this recipe?
Mirin adds a hint of sweetness and characteristic Japanese flavor to the dressing.
How much soy sauce is needed?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of soy sauce.
Is Ajinomoto required?
No, Ajinomoto (Accent) is listed as an optional ingredient for extra flavor.
What kind of pepper should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Is the dressing served hot or cold?
The dressing should be served chilled.
How much mirin is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of mirin.