Manuka Tahini Sesame Dressing with Lemon & Soy
A trendy umami-packed dressing that showcases New Zealand Manuka honey
A silky, tangy tahini dressing sweetened with Manuka honey for depth and balance. Perfect for grain bowls, roasted veg, salads or as a dip — aligns with current tahini + honey trends on social media and offers a savoury-sweet umami hit.
Timing
Cook Time: PT0M
Prep Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT10M
Active Time: PT10M
Ingredients
3
tablespoons
Manuka honey
(Notes: Use a high-MGO Manuka for richer flavour (see Manuka section))
4
tablespoons
tahini
(Notes: Well-stirred)
3
tablespoons
light soy sauce
(Notes: Or tamari for gluten-free)
3
tablespoons
fresh lemon juice
(Notes: About 1 lemon)
2
tablespoons
rice vinegar
(Notes: Or apple cider vinegar)
2
tablespoons
extra-virgin olive oil
1
tablespoon
toasted sesame oil
(Notes: For toasty aroma)
1
clove
garlic
(Notes: Finely minced or grated)
2
tablespoons
water
(Notes: Use to thin dressing to desired consistency, add more if needed)
To taste
salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1
In a medium bowl, whisk the tahini and Manuka honey together until smooth and glossy. If the honey is very thick, warm it gently for 5–10 seconds in the microwave or place jar in warm water to loosen before mixing.
Tip: Warming the honey slightly helps it incorporate without clumps; use a heat-safe jar and be careful not to overheat.
Timing: PT1M
Step 2
Add the soy sauce, lemon juice, rice vinegar, sesame oil, olive oil and minced garlic. Whisk vigorously to emulsify into a creamy dressing.
Tip: Whisking in a steady stream of oil helps create a smooth emulsion; you can also blitz briefly in a small blender for extra silkiness.
Timing: PT1M
Step 3
If the dressing is too thick, add water one teaspoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency for drizzling or dipping.
Tip: For a lighter dressing, add a little more lemon juice instead of water to brighten the flavour.
Timing: PT0S
Step 4
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper and extra Manuka honey if you want a sweeter finish. Transfer to a jar and shake to combine fully.
Tip: Manuka honey varies in intensity — start conservative and add more for a pronounced sweet note.
Timing: PT0S
Step 5
Store refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 7 days. Bring to room temperature and whisk before using if the tahini naturally firms in the fridge.
Tip: Use this dressing on roasted sweet potato bowls, kale salads, grain bowls or as a drizzle over grilled chicken for a trendy flavour boost.
Timing: PT0S