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Japanese Sesame Sauce

Creamy Japanese Sesame Sauce That Elevates Any Dish

This creamy Japanese sesame sauce is a vegan, nutty dressing that transforms any dish with its rich flavor.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 80

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1/2 cup White Sesame Seeds Use pre-toasted seeds for convenience.
  • 1/4 cup Unseasoned Rice Wine Vinegar Substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
  • 2 tablespoons Roasted Sesame Oil Avoid substituting with unroasted sesame oil for an authentic taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Neutral Flavored Vegetable Oil Can be replaced with grapeseed or canola oil.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar Substitute with maple syrup for a refined sugar-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Finely Minced Ginger Fresh ginger is ideal; powdered ginger may be used in a pinch.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Airtight jar

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Japanese Sesame Sauce
  1. Begin by heating a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the white sesame seeds, stirring constantly for about 3–5 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be vigilant to prevent burning; the seeds should be slightly darker but not charred. Once toasted, remove them from the skillet and set aside to cool.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the unseasoned rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, roasted sesame oil, neutral flavored vegetable oil, brown sugar, and finely minced ginger. Whisk the mixture vigorously for about 1–2 minutes until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well incorporated. The dressing should be smooth and combined.
  3. Once the sesame seeds have cooled, add them to the whisked mixture. Stir well to ensure the toasted seeds are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
  4. Take a moment to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You might find that adding a splash more vinegar for acidity or a pinch more sugar for sweetness enhances the overall flavor.
  5. Once the seasoning is to your liking, transfer your Japanese sesame sauce into an airtight jar. Seal it tightly and place it in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh for up to one week.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 20mgSugar: 2gCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.3mg

Notes

Always store in an airtight jar and shake well before each use, as separation is natural; this keeps the sauce fresh and flavorful up to a week.

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