Dressing for Chinese Chicken Salad
Description: This recipe presents a lower-fat alternative to the beloved “Trader Joe’s” sesame dressing, carefully crafted to maintain the deliciousness of the original while significantly reducing its fat content, making it a healthier option for you and your loved ones. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly complements a variety of salads, especially the classic Chinese chicken salad.
Cook Time: Not specified
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Recipe Category: Quick & Easy (< 15 minutes)
Keywords: Refrigerator
Servings: 12
Yield: 2 cups (about)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 98.4
- Fat: 7.7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 265.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 6.1g
- Fiber: 0.9g
- Sugar: 4.5g
- Protein: 2.4g
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Peanuts |
| 3 tbsp | Canola oil |
| 1/2 tsp | Gum tragacanth |
| 1 tbsp | Rice vinegar |
| 1/4 cup | Sugar |
| 2 tbsp | Kikkoman soy sauce |
| 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 2 tsp | Dry mustard |
| 2-3 tbsp | Toasted sesame seeds |
Instructions:
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Note: Gum tragacanth is an emulsifier and will keep the dressing from separating too much. It is not absolutely necessary for the recipe, but it makes everything stick together much better. If you can’t find it, substitute 1 tsp pectin powder, but add the pectin to the vinegar, not the oil.
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In a blender, combine the canola oil and gum tragacanth. Blend on high speed until well mixed.
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Return the oil mixture to a measuring cup.
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Add all remaining ingredients, except for the toasted sesame seeds, to the blender.
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Blend on high speed until all the ingredients are well combined.
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With the blender running, slowly add the oil mixture in a steady stream until the dressing is emulsified.
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Add the toasted sesame seeds to the blender and pulse a couple of times to mix them into the dressing.
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Pour the dressing into a covered jar and refrigerate for at least one hour before using.
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This recipe yields about 12 servings, with each serving being approximately 3 tablespoons.
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Serving Suggestion: This dressing is delicious on any salad, but it truly shines when paired with mixed greens, diced poached chicken, crunchy chow mein noodles, and toasted slivered almonds.
This dressing is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a burst of flavor that elevates any salad it touches. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or a special dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its unique blend of savory and sweet notes, perfectly balanced to tantalize your taste buds. Plus, with its lower-fat content, you can enjoy it guilt-free, knowing that you’re treating yourself to something both delicious and nutritious. So why wait? Whip up a batch of this delightful dressing today and take your salads to the next level! 🥗✨
