Sesame Dressing

Directions

Put the sesame seeds in a frying pan and toast them over low heat. When 2 to 3 sesame seeds start popping, remove the pan from the heat.

Grind the toasted sesame seeds with a mortar and pestle, food processor, or clean coffee grinder until a fine powder forms. Transfer to a bowl.

Mix in the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil.

NOTES:

Enhance the taste of this dressing by using a 1/2 cup of virgin olive oil. Or sweeten it up with 2 tablespoons of mirin.

If you prefer a creamier dressing, add 2 tablespoons of Japanese mayonnaise or another high-quality mayo. Or, alternatively, pulse the mixture in a blender for 15 to 30 seconds until it's thick and emulsified.

Garlic and ginger are two other welcomed additions for spicing up this recipe (add about a 1/2 teaspoon of each).