published May 03, 2023 Today’s recipe for miso tahini dressing is versatile, easy to make, and intensely flavorful. It’s a fusion of Asia meets Middle East flavors that really work well together. If you have enjoyed some of my other tahini-based recipes like my Homemade Tahini Dip or 5-Minute Tahini Yogurt Sauce, you are sure to love this version. An Asian twist transforms regular tahini into a zingy, zesty, umami masterpiece. It’s perfect for dipping, dunking, drizzling, or drenching all kinds of appetizers, snacks, and meals. Try it once and you’ll see exactly what I mean! Miso tahini dressing can easily be customized as well. Want a bit more heat? Dial up the ginger, garlic, or red pepper flakes. For sensitive palates, simply dial it down a notch. Dietary restrictions? You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by choosing a wheat-free tamari soy sauce and opting for a rice-based miso paste. Have I sold you yet? As you may know, I’m a fanatic when it comes to crafting DIY Condiments and Spice Blends. Mastering simple recipes like this tahini dressing opens up a whole other world of culinary possibilities. It is empowering, fun, and will enhance your cooking journey for years to come. Be adventurous!
INGREDIENT NOTES AND SUBSTITUTIONS
Tahini – This silky, smooth sesame seed paste forms the foundation of the dressing. It is earthy, slightly sweet, and slightly bitter. You can usually find tahini near the peanut butter or in the international foods aisle. Miso Paste – This is some of the most concentrated umami flavor you will find. Miso paste has a unique, complex flavor profile with many layers. It adds earthiness, saltiness, intense savoriness, and the occasional hint of funkiness. It’s normal, don’t worry!Ginger – Delivers a spicy-sweet, earthy element to the dressing. Garlic – Always the superstar, garlic enhances the dressing with its pungent and peppery profile.Rice Vinegar – Adds a lively dash of acidity with a subtle sweetness. If you need to substitute, the best alternatives are apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Soy Sauce – Brings a deep umami flavor along with an added dose of saltiness and tang. Red Pepper Flakes – Add a sharp little pop of fiery heat.
HOW TO MAKE MISO TAHINI DRESSING
How Do You Use Tahini Dressing?
Tahini dressing with miso is the perfect addition to a surprising variety of foods and will add a bit of creamy, umami goodness to everything it touches. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
It makes an excellent salad dressing. Drizzle some on your next garden salad for an instant Asian twist. Dress up your steamed veggies with a light drizzling. Serve it as a dip for sliced vegetables or your favorite appetizers like these Crispy Chinese Egg Rolls.Elevate your next rice or quinoa bowl with a bit of this scrumptious sauce. Pair it with your favorite meat kabobs like Chicken Koobideh, Beef and Lamb Koobideh Kabob, or Joojeh Kabob (Persian Chicken Kabob).
What Does Tahini Dressing Taste Like?
Miso tahini dressing has a delightfully unique taste. The rich, creamy earthiness of tahini paired with the deep, sumptuous umami of miso creates a savory, satiny sauce that will almost make you swoon! When we combine that with bright, tangy vinegar and pungent, warming spices we get a lively dressing to die for! It is savory and salty, creamy yet light, with loads of garlicky-gingery goodness and just the right touch of spicy heat.
How Long Does Tahini Dressing Last in the Fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, this creamy dressing will last for up to seven days in the refrigerator. Once you are ready to use it again, I recommend taking it out of the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to allow it to come to room temperature. Tahini will stiffen up when cold, so this step will help you fully re-incorporate the ingredients and make pouring easier. Since tahini dressing is so quick and easy to make, I have never needed to freeze it. However, it is possible. Simply store your leftovers in an airtight container and stash it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Once ready to enjoy, place it in the refrigerator overnight to defrost. Mix well and enjoy!
