Manuka Miso & Toasted Sesame Dressing
A glossy umami-rich dressing perfect for salads, grain bowls and roasted veg
A versatile, Instagram-friendly dressing that combines the floral depth of Manuka honey with white miso and toasted sesame for a balanced sweet‑savory punch. Quick to make and great for contemporary bowls and salad trends.
Timing
Cook Time: PT0M
Prep Time: PT10M
Rest Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT40M
Active Time: PT10M
Ingredients
3
tbsp
Aotearoa Manuka honey
(Notes: use a good-quality manuka (see notes); avoid heating to preserve enzymes)
2
tbsp
white miso paste
(Notes: adds umami; smooth and mild works best)
3
tbsp
rice vinegar
(Notes: for brightness; adjust to taste)
2
tbsp
tamari or soy sauce
(Notes: use tamari for gluten-free option)
3
tbsp
neutral oil
(Notes: canola, grapeseed or light olive oil for body)
1
tbsp
toasted sesame oil
(Notes: for toasted, nutty aroma)
1
clove
garlic
(Notes: finely minced or grated)
1
tsp
fresh ginger
(Notes: finely grated)
1
tbsp
fresh lemon juice
(Notes: adds acidity and freshness)
to taste
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
(Notes: adjust seasoning after resting)
Instructions
Step 1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the white miso paste, Aotearoa Manuka honey, rice vinegar, tamari (or soy sauce) and lemon juice until smooth and free of lumps.
Tip: If miso is stiff, dissolve it with a teaspoon of warm water first to avoid lumps.
Step 2
Slowly drizzle in the neutral oil while whisking vigorously to create a glossy emulsion, then whisk in the toasted sesame oil until fully combined.
Tip: For a creamier texture, blend briefly with a stick blender while slowly adding the oil.
Step 3
Stir through the minced garlic and grated ginger, then taste and season with sea salt and black pepper. Adjust acidity with a splash more rice vinegar or lemon if needed.
Tip: Add small amounts of vinegar gradually — miso and tamari are already salty so balance carefully.
Step 4
Cover the dressing and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavours to marry and the Manuka honey to mellow with the miso.
Tip: Resting improves roundness and brings out the floral notes of the Manuka honey.
Timing: PT30M
Step 5
Give the dressing a final whisk before serving. Drizzle over mixed leaf salads, roasted vegetables, grain bowls or use as a marinade for tofu and chicken.
Tip: Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 7 days; bring to room temperature and shake before using.