Traditional Japanese Salad Dressing Recipe

As a registered dietitian and a food enthusiast, I have always been drawn to the blend of flavors that characterizes Japanese cuisine. And one of the components I find particularly interesting is the traditional Japanese salad dressing.

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Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 0

Total Time: 10

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Japanese

Keyword: Traditional Japanese Salad Dressing Recipe

Servings: Servings

Calories: 82kcal

Author: Bex Smith

Equipment

Mixing bowl

Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
– ½ teaspoon minced garlic
– ½ cup peanut oil
– ½ teaspoon sea salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons chopped celery
– 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
– 4 teaspoons tamari soy sauce
– ⅓ cup rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– ½ cup finely chopped onion
– ½ teaspoon chili flakes

Instructions

Let’s get your apron on and jump right into the steps.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

First things first, gather all your ingredients. The cleaner your workspace, the easier the process will flow.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, add the peanut oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together until they blend seamlessly.

Step 3: Add Flavor Builders

Now, introduce the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped celery into the mix. These fresh ingredients will deliver a burst of flavor.

Step 4: Mix in Seasonings

Next, sprinkle in the sea salt, black pepper, and sugar. Give it another good whisk. The sugar will balance the saltiness of the soy sauce, creating harmony.

Step 5: Include Additional Elements

After you have a smooth mixture, it’s time to add the sesame oil, onion, and chili flakes. Stir everything until well combined. You should have a dressing that smells heavenly by now!

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Give it a taste! If you want a pinch more sweetness or saltiness, adjust according to your preference. The dressing should sing with an inviting balance of sweet, tangy, and umami notes.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Transfer your dressing into a jar or container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This resting time will help the flavors meld beautifully.

Notes

Want to ensure your dressing turns out perfect? Here are some tried-and-true tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger. The flavors are notably more vibrant.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili flakes based on your heat preference. You can even skip them if you desire a milder dressing.
Experiment with Oils: Feel free to substitute peanut oil with another oil like grapeseed or canola if allergies are a concern.
Serving Suggestions: Drizzle it just before serving to maintain the freshness. Applying it too early can wilt the greens.
Batch It: Make a larger batch to have on hand for quick salads during the week—it

Nutrition

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