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    Home » Recipes » Vegan Condiments

    Roasted Sesame Dressing

    Published: Jul 25, 2023 · Modified: May 13, 2025 · by Puja Verma

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    This roasted sesame dressing recipe is packed with toasty sesame seeds, creamy vegan Kewpie mayo, and just the right balance of sweet and tangy elements. Serve this incredibly versatile condiment over your favorite salads, drizzled on grilled veggies, or as a dip for snack platters.

    Spoonful of roasted sesame dressing drizzling over a jar full.

    Why you’ll love this recipe

    • Easy to make: All you need is a handful of ingredients and a blender. The preparation process couldn’t be more straightforward!
    • Vegan-friendly: Made with vegan Kewpie mayo and other plant-based ingredients, this dressing is perfect for those following a vegan diet or who have allergies.
    • Homemade is better: Store-bought dressings often contain additives and preservatives. By making your own, you control what goes in it, resulting in a healthier and fresher Kewpie sesame dressing.

    What is roasted sesame dressing?

    This roasted sesame dressing is inspired by the flavors of Japanese sesame dressing, and it’s recently become one of my go-to recipes! It's a creamy, nutty, and rich sauce that perfectly enhances the flavors of salads, grilled vegetables, and even tofu.

    It all starts off with a base of sesame seeds and vegan Kewpie mayo, creating a rich, nutty, and creamy layer. Maple syrup adds sweetness, soy sauce provides an umami kick, and mirin brings a kick of acidity.

    The resulting sauce is thick, smooth, and luscious with a gorgeous golden-brown hue. Serve it drizzled over a vibrant mango cucumber salad, as a dipping sauce, or even a marinade for tofu or tempeh.

    Is roasted sesame dressing vegan?

    With so many different ways to make this roasted sesame dressing, it’s incredibly straightforward to prepare a plant-based version. Instead of traditional Kewpie mayo that’s egg-based, I’ve opted for my homemade vegan Kewpie mayo recipe.

    Additionally, I used maple syrup instead of honey, which is a popular sweetener in dressings like this! With these two simple swaps, it’s easy to make a 100% vegan recipe.

    Ingredients & Substitutions

    Roasted sesame dressing ingredients laid out individually with labels.
    • White sesame seeds: Lend a robust, nutty flavor. You can also use black sesame seeds for a slightly different taste profile. Just note that the color will vary.
    • Vegan Kewpie mayo: Gives the dressing its creamy consistency. Make your own or buy it from specialty grocery stores. In a pinch, you can also use any vegan mayo.
    • Maple syrup: Adds a hint of natural sweetness that balances the richness and tanginess of the other ingredients. Agave syrup also makes a good substitute.
    • Garlic: Provides a sharp, intensely savory flavor. You can use fresh or garlic paste.
    • Mirin: Provides a touch of acidity. If you don’t have mirin, try using rice wine vinegar with a little extra maple syrup or agave.
    • Soy sauce: Imparts a deep, savory, umami taste. For a gluten-free alternative, feel free to use tamari, gluten-free soy sauce, coconut aminos, or liquid aminos.
    • Avocado oil: Helps emulsify the Kewpie sesame dressing, resulting in a luxuriously smooth texture. Other neutral oils like canola or grapeseed can be used instead.

    How to make roasted sesame dressing

    A skillet with white roasted sesame seeds.
    • Step 1: Start with toasting the sesame seeds over medium-low heat. You want them golden and aromatic, but be sure to stir them often for an even toast and to avoid burning. Once they’re done, turn off the heat and let them cool down.
    An open blender cup with sesame dressing purée in it.
    • Step 2: Pop the sesame seeds and all the other ingredients into your blender. Give it a good mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy. If it's too thick, feel free to add a bit of water to thin it out.

    What to serve with roasted sesame dressing

    As I mentioned earlier, roasted sesame dressing is one versatile condiment! It pairs well with dishes like these:

    • Salads: Try it on a kani salad, strawberry goat cheese salad, or dairy-free coleslaw.  
    • Vegetables: Drizzle it on top of roasted winter veggies or roasted beets and fennel.
    • Noodles: Mix some into a cold soba noodle salad for a flavor-packed recipe.
    • Spring rolls: Use your roasted sesame dressing as a dip for spring rolls, crispy tofu or tempura.
    A glass jar with roasted sesame dressing in it.

    Storage & Reheating

    If you have any leftover roasted sesame dressing or prefer to make a double batch, follow these simple storage tips: 

    • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. I prefer storing mine in a mason jar to preserve the flavors.
    • Freezer: I don’t recommend freezing this recipe. The texture may change too much once you thaw it.

    Variations

    • Spicy: Add a teaspoon or two of Sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
    • Citrusy: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a citrusy twist.
    • Garlicky: Double the garlic for a stronger taste. You can even try roasting it for a different flavor profile.
    • Extra creamy: Increase the vegan Kewpie mayo for an extra creamy dressing.
    Roasted sesame dressing in a glass jar next to a plate of salad and sesame seeds.

    Top tips

    • Toast the seeds: Toast the sesame seeds to bring out their full flavor potential.
    • Cool before blending: Be sure to cool the sesame seeds before blending to protect your food processor and achieve the best texture.
    • Adjust the sweetness: Adjust the maple syrup and mirin to your preference. You can use this recipe as a base and make it your own from there.
    • Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a bit of water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, try adding more sesame seeds or Kewpie mayo.
    • Taste and adjust: Always taste and adjust the seasonings before serving your Kewpie sesame dressing.

    FAQ

    Why is my dressing too thick?

    If your roasted sesame dressing is too thick, add a bit of water a little bit at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

    Can I use black sesame seeds instead of white? 

    Yes, you can. Just know that black sesame seeds have a slightly different taste but can still be used in this recipe.

    Do I have to toast the sesame seeds?

    Toasting the sesame seeds is recommended as it brings out a more robust flavor. However, you can skip this step if you're short on time.

    Roasted sesame dressing drizzling over a salad.

    More sauce recipes

    If you enjoyed this roasted sesame dressing recipe, don’t forget to check out some more of my favorite sauces like these:

    • Sweet Onion Sauce: A simple copycat recipe of Subway’s famous sauce.
    • Southwest Salad Dressing: A creamy, spicy, and tangy recipe made in 5 minutes.
    • Homemade Maple Dijon Vinaigrette: An easy dressing made from pantry staples.
    • Maple Balsamic Dressing: Creamy maple balsamic dressing with tangy, sweet, and decadent flavors.
    Spoonful of roasted sesame dressing drizzling over a jar full of dressing.

    Roasted Sesame Dressing

    5 from 1 vote
    Prep Time: 7 minutes mins
    Cook Time: 5 minutes mins
    Total Time: 12 minutes mins
    Serving Size: 6 people
    Author Puja Verma
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe

    DESCRIPTION

    This homemade roasted sesame dressing is creamy, nutty, and rich. Perfect to drizzle on your salads, roasted veggies or dip in some grilled tofu. Packed with toasty sesame seeds, vegan kewpie mayo with a balance of sweet and tangy elements.

    INGREDIENTS
      

    • 4 tablespoon white sesame seeds
    • ¼ cup vegan kewpie mayo
    • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
    • 1 tablespoon garlic minced or paste
    • 1 tablespoon mirin or rice vinegar
    • 2 teaspoon soy sauce
    • 2 teaspoon avocado oil

    METHOD
     

    • Make sure to have vegan kewpie mayo on hand. If you do not access to vegan kewpie mayo, then you can make your own by following this vegan kewpie mayo recipe.
    • Place sesame seeds in a pan over medium-low heat. Stir them constantly till golden and toasted from all sides. Once they are toasted, transfer them into another dish immediately and let them cool down for 10 minutes.
      Note: You can skip this step if you have store bought toasted sesame seeds.
    • Place all ingredients into a personal blender and blend till smooth.

    NOTES

    • Toast the seeds: Toast the sesame seeds to bring out their full flavor potential.
    • Cool before blending: Be sure to cool the sesame seeds before blending to protect your food processor and achieve the best texture.
    • Adjust the sweetness: Adjust the maple syrup and mirin to your preference. You can use this recipe as a base and make it your own from there.
    • Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a bit of water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, try adding more sesame seeds or Kewpie mayo.
    • Taste and adjust: Always taste and adjust the seasonings before serving your Kewpie sesame dressing.

    NUTRITION

    Calories: 56kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 125mg | Potassium: 37mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 0.5IU | Calcium: 56mg | Iron: 1mg
    Course: Condiments
    Cuisine: Japanese
    Keyword: kewpie sesame dressing, Roasted Sesame Dressing
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    Puja from Green Heart Love

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