Manuka Miso Tahini Dressing with Lemon & Sesame
Creamy umami dressing sweetened with Manuka honey — perfect for salads, grain bowls and roasted veg
A trending fusion dressing combining white miso, tahini and toasted sesame with the unique floral sweetness of Manuka honey. Quick to make, naturally gluten-free and packed with umami — ideal for drizzling over leafy salads, roasted vegetables or grain bowls.
Timing
Cook Time: PT0M
Prep Time: PT10M
Rest Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Active Time: PT10M
Ingredients
2
tbsp
white miso paste
(Notes: use low-salt white miso for a balanced flavour)
2
tbsp
tahini
(Notes: stir well before measuring if separated)
1
tbsp
Manuka honey
(Notes: Comvita UMF 10+ recommended; adjust to taste)
2
tbsp
rice vinegar
(Notes: seasonal taste; apple cider vinegar can substitute)
1
tbsp
fresh lemon juice
(Notes: zest optional for extra brightness)
1
tbsp
tamari
(Notes: use gluten-free tamari for GF option)
1
tsp
toasted sesame oil
(Notes: adds a nutty finish — a little goes a long way)
1
tsp
fresh ginger, finely grated
(Notes: adds fresh heat; adjust to preference)
3-4
tbsp
warm water
(Notes: to thin; add until desired consistency)
to taste
black pepper
(Notes: freshly cracked)
Instructions
Step 1
In a medium bowl combine the white miso paste and tahini. Whisk vigorously until smooth and no lumps remain.
Tip: Use a small whisk or fork; scraping the bowl sides helps get a silky base.
Step 2
Add Manuka honey, rice vinegar, lemon juice, tamari, toasted sesame oil and grated ginger to the miso-tahini base. Whisk to combine until glossy.
Tip: Warm the Manuka honey slightly by placing jar in warm water if it's very thick — this helps it incorporate evenly.
Step 3
Slowly whisk in warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency. Season with freshly cracked black pepper and taste for balance — add more honey for sweetness or lemon for brightness.
Tip: For a creamier, richer dressing, use less water; for a lighter drizzle, add a little more.
Step 4
Transfer the dressing to a sealed jar and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavours meld.
Tip: Resting amplifies the umami from the miso and allows the Manuka honey's floral notes to integrate.
Timing: PT15M
Step 5
Shake or whisk again just before serving. Drizzle over mixed greens, grain bowls, roast carrots or steamed broccoli. Keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days; stir before each use.
Tip: If dressing thickens in the fridge, bring to room temperature briefly or thin with a splash of warm water.