Asian Ginger Dressing

This simple yet flavorful dressing is a versatile addition to any Asian-inspired dish. It's made with a combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup. The result is a well-balanced dressing that's both savory and slightly sweet, with a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes. Serve it over salads, noodles, grilled meats, or vegetables for an instant burst of Asian flavor.

The origins of Asian ginger dressing are murky, but it's believed to have originated in China or Japan centuries ago. The dressing was likely created as a way to add flavor and moisture to simple dishes made with rice, noodles, or vegetables. Over time, the dressing spread to other parts of Asia and eventually made its way to the West, where it has become a popular ingredient in Asian-inspired cuisine.

Prep time: 5 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
3. Serve immediately or store in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Why It Works

• The combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil creates a savory and slightly acidic base for the dressing.
• The addition of fresh ginger and garlic adds a bright and pungent flavor to the dressing.
• The touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup balances out the savory and acidic flavors of the dressing.
• The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick of spice to the dressing, without overpowering the other flavors.