• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
The Perfect Tide
  • Recipe Index
    • MEDITERRANEAN RECIPES
    • SEAFOOD RECIPES
      • Fish
        • Rock Fish & White Fish
        • Salmon
        • Tuna
      • Canned & Tinned
      • Shellfish
        • Crab
        • Mussels
        • Oysters
        • Razor Clams
        • Shrimp
        • Steamer Clams
      • PACIFIC COAST
    • Breakfast
    • Appetizers
    • Main Course
      • Mediterranean Main Dish
    • Sides
    • Desserts
    • Baked Goods
    • Drinks
    • Sauces & extras
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • About Me
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • Seafood How-To
  • Shop
  • About Me
  • Contact
  • Subscribe!
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipe Index
    • Seafood How-To
    • Shop
    • About Me
    • Contact
    • Subscribe!
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home

    Japanese Goma Dressing

    Last Updated: Aug 16, 2023 by Suzy Sakamoto · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Jump to Recipe Share on Facebook

    Get ready for your new favorite dressing that's great on just about anything. Japanese Goma Dressing is bursting with a nutty, umami-rich, tangy flavor that makes it irresistible, while being a super easy recipe that packs in the most flavor using one simple ingredient to cut down time in the kitchen! Make it in just 5 minutes!

    japanese goma dressing in a white ramekin

    Table of Contents

    • WHAT IS GOMA DRESSING?
    • WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS
    • RECIPE INGREDIENTS
    • HOW TO MAKE GOMA DRESSING
    • VARIATIONS AND SUBSTITUTIONS
    • FAQ
    • Sign up to receive our Seafood & Wine Pairing!
    • EXPERT TIPS
    • STORAGE TIPS
    • MORE ASIAN RECIPES
    • Japanese Goma Dressing
    • MORE SAUCE & DRESSING RECIPES

    WHAT IS GOMA DRESSING?

    Goma dare directly translates to sesame dressing in Japan. It's a very popular Japanese sauce that's creamy, nutty and packs in the best Asian flavors to add to your salads, vegetables, to use as a dip, toss with cooked noodles, or to use as a sauce for meat and seafood.

    I love it as a marinade on white or rock fish! Plus, save some to drizzle on your sides! Or look into more inspiration from this all-time favorite Japanese cookbook.

    The flavors come alive from toasted sesame paste, miso, and soy sauce. With a kick of tang from the rice vinegar that takes it over the top!

    Unlike tahini that's made using raw sesame seeds, goma is made using crushed toasted sesame seeds. And, it sure packs a punch of flavor that give it it's signature taste.

    japanese goma dressing in a white ramekin with gold spoon near

    WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS

    After testing several variations, you will be rest assured that this is a tried and tested recipe that's ready for your meal plans! Here are the reasons why you'll love it:

    • Versatile. Toss the dressing on any salad or green mix, top to steamed rice, roasted veggies, or use as a dip for a vegetable tray! I love using it as dipping for carrots instead of ranch.
    • Easy to make! This recipe is much easier than most in skipping the toasting and crushing step by using sesame paste. Make it in just 5 minutes!
    • Unique marinade. Holy wow is this dressing a good marinade! Use half to marinade white fish, and save the rest for drizzling on top to serve.
    • Creamy. This sauce is traditionally a creamy sauce and by using both sesame paste and mayo makes it perfectly creamy and more palatable.

    ingredients for goma dressing

    RECIPE INGREDIENTS

    • Toasted sesame paste.
      This is a paste very similar to tahini, except it's made using toasted seeds. Using this recipe cuts down on time toasting and crushing your own seeds until they're finely ground to use in the dressing. Look at alternatives for toasted sesame paste below.
    • Sesame seeds.
      If you have pre-toasted seeds that's perfect, otherwise, you can easily use regular white seeds. I like using sesame seeds to add texture to the sauce.
    • Mayonnaise.
      Your regular mayo will do, though, kewpie Japanese mayo is the most authentic to use.
    • Soy sauce.
      I'm using a regular soy sauce, but if you prefer, feel free to use a low-sodium or gluten-free option.
    • Seasoned rice vinegar.
      The seasoned vinegar is much more flavorful than the regular option. It's great for adding flavor, easily.
    • Sesame oil.
      A little bit goes a long way in adding a strong warm flavor to this Japanese sesame dressing.
    • Miso paste.
      I used the low-sodium miso, to balance out the salt from the soy sauce. Miso provides the most amazing burst of flavor and spice that's much needed in this dressing!
    • Honey.
      To balance out all the other flavors, the sauce needs a touch of sweetness!

    japanese goma dressing in a white ramekin

    HOW TO MAKE GOMA DRESSING

    This is a super easy recipe that anyone can make in under 5 minutes!

    1. First, gather all your ingredients. This sauce needs quite a bit of ingredients, but comes together so fast once they're all lined up and ready to go!
    2. Mix it up: In a small mixing bowl or a food blender, add all your ingredients and mix or blend until completely incorporated.
    3. Test it: Try a little sample to check for salt and sweetness. Add more soy sauce or honey to your taste.
    4. Melding time: Cover and allow the sauce to meld for at least 30 minutes. I like to make it and let it sit in the fridge overnight for the flavors to come together.

    VARIATIONS AND SUBSTITUTIONS

    • Add other flavorful ingredients: While sesame seeds are the star of the show, adding other ingredients like garlic or ginger can help to balance the flavors and make the dressing more complex.
    • Add water. If you're looking for a runnier dressing, add water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
    • Substitute sesame paste for crushed toasted sesame seeds. Toast the seeds in a pan, then once cooled blend them until they make a paste. Use that instead of store-bought paste in the sauce.

    FAQ

    How do I use goma dressing?

    Use it to jazz up a variety of dishes! It's fantastic with salads, whether simple green salads or more elaborate creations. It also pairs well with steamed or grilled vegetables, as well as tossed in a cold noodle salad. Even as a sauce for grilled chicken or tofu.

    Is goma gluten-free?

    It can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Check your soy sauce label for gluten content or opt for a certified gluten-free version.

    What dishes pair well with it?

    Side dishes like steamed or fried rice, grilled chicken, or steamed vegetables are great options for serving alongside a dish that has this dressing.

    Can I adjust the flavors to my liking?

    Absolutely! One of the beauties of making your own sauce is being able to customize the flavors. If you like it tangier, add a bit more vinegar; if you prefer it sweeter, increase the mirin or sugar. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

    Sign up to receive our Seafood & Wine Pairing!

    * indicates required

    • Facebook
    • Link to our Youtube Channel
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    EXPERT TIPS

    By following these expert tips, you'll be able to create this delicious and flavorful Japanese dressing that will elevate any salad or veggie dish.

    1. Use high-quality sesame seeds: The flavor of this dressing comes primarily from seeds themselves, so it's important to use fresh, high-quality sesame seeds.
    2. Use a blender or food processor: To get a smooth and creamy consistency, it's best to use a blender or food processor to make the sauce. All you'll need to do is blend all of your ingredients together until smooth.
    3. Use seasoned rice vinegar. There are several types of rice vinegar, and going with the seasoned option provides the best flavor for the sauce.

    STORAGE TIPS

    Store in the refrigerator: This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a quick shake or stir before using to make sure the ingredients are well combined.

    MORE ASIAN RECIPES

    • sauteed cauliflower mushrooms in rice bowl
      Asian-inspired Cauliflower Mushroom Recipe
    • fish collars broiled on black plate
      Best Broiled Fish Collars
    • shrimp yakisoba with chopsticks
      Shrimp Yakisoba
    • tuna fried rice in a japanese chopstick bowl
      Tuna Fried Rice


    I LOVE HEARING FROM YOU! When you make this dish, please RATE using the ⭐️stars, and COMMENT at the end of the page. I love connecting with you in the comments section.

    Make sure to share this recipe (there's an easy SHARE on FB button in the recipe card!) or post your picture on Instagram and tag @theperfecttide.

    japanese goma dressing in a white ramekin

    Japanese Goma Dressing

    Elevate your salads with this easy Japanese Goma dressing - a nutty, creamy Japanese sesame dressing that'll make your taste buds dance! Make it in less than 5 minutes!
    5 from 2 votes
    Cuisine: Asian, Japanese
    Course: Dressing, sauce
    Prep: 5 minutes minutes
    Total: 5 minutes minutes
    Servings: 0.33 cup
    Print Share Pin Email Rate
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Ingredients

    • 1½ tablespoon sesame paste
    • 1½ tablespoon mayonnaise
    • 1 tablespoon soy sauce, full sodium or substitute for tamari, low-sodium, gluten-free
    • 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
    • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
    • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
    • 1 teaspoon miso paste, low-sodium
    • 1½ teaspoon honey

    Instructions

    • Gather all your ingredients.
    • Using a mortar and pestle, lightly crush the white sesame seeds. Just a bit, they don't need to be finely crushed.
    • To a small mixing bowl, transfer the sesame seeds and add the rest of the ingredients. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated. You can also use a blender to make it even easier.
    • Time to sample! Taste for salt and sweetness and adjust with soy sauce or more honey per your taste.
    • Use it right away, or transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge until ready to use.

    Notes

    Nutrition calculation may vary. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 2tablespoon | Calories: 121kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 355mg | Potassium: 53mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 11IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg
    Keywords: Goma dare, Japanese dressing, Japanese sauce, Sesame Dressing

    • Facebook
    • Link to our Youtube Channel
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    MORE SAUCE & DRESSING RECIPES

    • Oyster Vinaigrette on half shell oyster
      Mediterranean Oyster Sauce with Sumac
    • mediterranean salad dressing with sumac
      Mediterranean Salad Dressing with Sumac
    • seafood boil sauce next to a boil
      Cajun Seafood Boil Sauce
    • tartar sauce with fish sticks and tater tots
      Easy Homemade Tartar Sauce (4 ingredients!)

    More Recipes

    • grilling salmon steaks on cedar plank
      Grilled Salmon Steaks
    • gluten free fried smelt with lemon wedges
      Crunchy and Light Fried Smelt
    • apple cider vinegar drink with pineapple and mint garnish in a dotted glass cup
      Apple Cider Vinegar Drink "Twister"
    • grilled halibut skewers on a plate with coconut rice and grilled mini peppers with pineapple
      Grilled Tropical Halibut Skewers

    Reader Interactions

    5 from 2 votes (2 ratings without comment)

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    seafood blogger in the pacific northwest

    Hi, I'm Suzy! Welcome to my Pacific Coast kitchen!

    Here you will find authentic Mediterranean recipes and a variety of fresh seafood recipes that are easy to achieve, feature fresh ingredients, and are packed with flavor! Growing up on the Mediterranean I cherish our current catch-and-cook lifestyle, and my seafood recipes are tested, perfected, and easy to re-create! Subscribe to get them via email, and in the meantime you can Shop My Kitchen!

    More About Me

    Popular

    • crab melts on english muffins with tomato and cheese
      Crab Melt on English Muffins
    • fish fillet cooked in air fryer with roasted air fries carrots and parsnips
      Easy Air Fryer Frozen Fish
    • Mediterranean Pickled Beet Salad
    • cooked crab in a pot crab legs crab sections and whole crab cooked
      The Easiest Way to Cook Crab

    Seasonal

    • salmon crudo with chimichurri
      Salmon Crudo
    • crab omelette with crab legs and veggies on white plate
      BEST Crab Omelette
    • creamy espresso martini
      Creamy Espresso Martini (3 ingredients!)
    • oysters cooked in air fryer with vinaigrette topping and garnished with parsley
      Air Fryer Oysters (Opening Oysters The Easiest Way)
    seafood blogger in the pacific northwest

    Hi, I'm Suzy! Welcome to my Pacific Coast kitchen!

    Here you will find authentic Mediterranean recipes and a variety of fresh seafood recipes that are easy to achieve, feature fresh ingredients, and are packed with flavor! Growing up on the Mediterranean I cherish our current catch-and-cook lifestyle, and my seafood recipes are tested, perfected, and easy to re-create! Subscribe to get them via email, and in the meantime you can Shop My Kitchen!

    More About Me

    Popular

    • crab melts on english muffins with tomato and cheese
      Crab Melt on English Muffins
    • fish fillet cooked in air fryer with roasted air fries carrots and parsnips
      Easy Air Fryer Frozen Fish
    • Mediterranean Pickled Beet Salad
    • cooked crab in a pot crab legs crab sections and whole crab cooked
      The Easiest Way to Cook Crab

    Seasonal

    • salmon crudo with chimichurri
      Salmon Crudo
    • crab omelette with crab legs and veggies on white plate
      BEST Crab Omelette
    • creamy espresso martini
      Creamy Espresso Martini (3 ingredients!)
    • oysters cooked in air fryer with vinaigrette topping and garnished with parsley
      Air Fryer Oysters (Opening Oysters The Easiest Way)

    Footer

    ⬆️ back to top

    ABOUT

    • ABOUT
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms & Conditions

    NEWSLETTER

    • SIGN UP FOR FREE RECIPES

    CONTACT

    • CONTACT
    • FACEBOOK
    • INSTAGRAM
    • PINTEREST

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright ©️ 2023 THEPERFECTTIDE

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.