Japanese Carrot Ginger Dressing Recipe: Sweet & Tangy in 10 Minutes
Make this iconic Japanese Carrot Ginger Dressing at home in just 10 minutes! Inspired by Japanese-American steakhouses, this sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy dressing is perfect for salads, grilled veggies, or as a dipping sauce. Fresh carrots, ginger, and a blend of soy sauce and rice vinegar create a vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with crisp greens like iceberg lettuce.
Ingredients
- Carrots: About 7 ounces roughly chopped. No need to be precise—this is a forgiving recipe.
- Onion: A small yellow onion adds a touch of sweetness.
- Fresh Ginger: The star of the show! Two tablespoons give it that signature zing.
- Soy Sauce: Use a Japanese brand like Kikkoman for authentic flavor.
- Rice Vinegar: This adds the perfect tang.
- Sugar: Just a tablespoon to balance the flavors.
- Neutral Oil: Canola vegetable, or grapeseed oil works great.
Instructions
- Blend It Up: Toss the carrots, onion, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar into a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Emulsify: With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the oil. This step is key—it creates that creamy, dreamy texture.
- Taste and Adjust: Give it a taste. Need more sweetness? Add a pinch of sugar. Want more kick? Throw in an extra teaspoon of ginger.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- Avoid freezing, as the texture of fresh ingredients may deteriorate.