Manuka Honey Miso Tahini Dressing with Lime & Toasted Sesame
A creamy, umami-rich dressing using New Zealand Manuka honey for balanced sweetness and depth
This vibrant dressing blends the floral sweetness of Manuka honey with white miso and tahini for a creamy, umami-packed finish. Bright lime and toasted sesame add freshness and crunch — perfect for grain bowls, roasted veg, salads or as a dip. Letting it rest briefly deepens the flavour.
Timing
Cook Time: PT0M
Prep Time: PT10M
Rest Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Active Time: PT10M
Ingredients
2
tbsp
Manuka honey
(Notes: use UMF 15+/MGO 250 for pronounced flavour)
2
tbsp
white miso
(Notes: smooth, pasteurised)
3
tbsp
tahini
(Notes: stirred well before measuring)
2
tbsp
rice vinegar
(Notes: seasoned or unseasoned both work)
1
tbsp
light soy sauce
(Notes: or tamari for gluten-free)
1
lime
(Notes: zest and juice)
1
tsp
toasted sesame oil
(Notes: for nutty aroma)
1
clove
garlic
(Notes: finely grated)
60
ml
warm water
(Notes: adjust to desired consistency)
1/4
tsp
chilli flakes
(Notes: optional, to taste)
1
tbsp
toasted sesame seeds
(Notes: for garnish)
pinch
sea salt
(Notes: adjust to taste)
Instructions
Step 1
Toast the sesame seeds in a dry frying pan over medium heat, shaking frequently until golden and fragrant; remove and set aside to cool.
Tip: Watch closely — sesame seeds can burn quickly.
Timing: PT3M
Step 2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the white miso, tahini, Manuka honey, rice vinegar and light soy sauce until smooth.
Tip: Warm the miso slightly (by stirring with a splash of warm water) if it’s very stiff to help it combine.
Timing: PT2M
Step 3
Add the lime zest, lime juice, grated garlic, toasted sesame oil and chilli flakes; continue to whisk while gradually adding warm water until reach a silky, pourable consistency.
Tip: Adjust water for a thicker dip or thinner dressing depending on use.
Timing: PT3M
Step 4
Taste and season with a pinch of sea salt and more lime or soy if needed to balance sweetness and acidity.
Tip: Manuka honey varies in intensity — if very sweet, add a little extra vinegar or lime.
Timing: PT1M
Step 5
Transfer dressing to a jar, sprinkle in most of the toasted sesame seeds (reserve some for garnish), close the lid and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavours to marry.
Tip: Resting mellows the miso and lets the Manuka honey integrate for a rounded flavour.
Timing: PT15M
Step 6
Shake or stir well before serving. Drizzle over salads, grain bowls, roasted vegetables, or use as a dip; garnish with remaining toasted sesame seeds.
Tip: Store in the fridge for up to 7 days; whisk or shake to reincorporate if it separates.
Timing: PT0S