How to make Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette

Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette is a savory and umami-rich dressing that infuses the naturally salty and bold flavors of tamari with the zesty acidity of vinegar. As a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, tamari is an ideal ingredient for those with dietary restrictions or who prefer a cleaner soy flavor. This dressing is created specifically for those enjoying a plant-based lifestyle, but it’s also a hit among anyone looking to add a punch of deep, rich taste to their meals.

Its foundation is often a blend of tamari, your choice of vinegar such as apple cider or rice vinegar, and perhaps a hint of sweetness from agave syrup or maple syrup to balance the robustness. Whisked with ingredients like garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, this vinaigrette carries layers of complexity that can elevate simple dishes to new culinary heights.

Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette is superb for dressing green salads, as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, or as a marinade for tofu or tempeh, showcasing the diversity of vegan cuisine and the wonderful adaptability of traditional condiments to fit a vegan diet.

Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette Recipe

Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette

Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette is a savory dressing that perfectly blends the rich flavors of tamari soy sauce with the tanginess of vinegar, commonly apple cider or rice vinegar. The uniqueness of this vinaigrette lies in its utilization of tamari, which is a wheat-free alternative to traditional soy sauce, offering a deeper flavor that's often smoother and less salty. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking gluten-free options or preferring a cleaner soy taste.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Sauce

Cuisine French

Servings 4 serving

Calories 85 kcal

Equipment

• 1 medium mixing bowl
• 1 air tight container

Ingredients

  

• 1/4 cup tamari
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 tsp. Dijon mustard

Instructions

 

• Combine the tamari, red wine vinegar together in a medium mixing bowl and whisk well until smooth
• Serve dressing on salad or veggies immediately or store in an air tight container with a lid and keep in the fridge. Use dressing within a week.

Keyword red wine vinegar, tamari

Cooking Tips about Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette

• Choice of Tamari: Select a high-quality tamari for its robust flavor. Organic and gluten-free options are available for those with dietary preferences.
• Acidic Balance: Combine the tamari with an acid like rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar to balance out the umami richness with brightness.
• Sweetness Adjustment: Add a hint of natural sweetness with agave syrup or maple syrup to counteract the saltiness of the tamari, adjusting to taste.
• Flavor Enhancers: Incorporate finely minced garlic and ginger for additional flavor layers that complement the depth of tamari.
• Sesame Oil for Aroma: A touch of toasted sesame oil can add a distinctive nutty aroma and depth to your vinaigrette.
• Whisking for Emulsification: To achieve a homogeneous mixture, whisk the ingredients vigorously. An immersion blender can also be used for a more thorough emulsion.
• Seasoning Balance: Be mindful of additional salt since tamari is inherently salty. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Herbs for Complexity: Fresh herbs like cilantro or chives can provide fresh notes that elevate the overall flavor profile of the vinaigrette.
• Heat Element Optional: If you enjoy heat, consider adding a splash of chili oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a warm kick.
• Consistency Control: Depending on the desired use, you may want to alter the consistency by adding water for a thinner dressing or by incorporating more tamari or vinegar for thickness.

Serving suggestion about Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette

• Asian-Inspired Salad: Dress a salad of mixed greens, shredded carrots, red cabbage, edamame beans, and crunchy wonton strips with the Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette for a refreshing Asian-inspired salad.
• Marinade for Proteins: Use it as a marinade for tofu, tempeh, or seitan before grilling or baking to add a depth of umami flavor.
• Stir-Fry Sauce: Add a splash of the vinaigrette while stir-frying vegetables or noodles for an extra burst of savory flavor.
• Rice or Quinoa Dressing: Drizzle over cooked rice or quinoa that’s been mixed with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and diced bell peppers for a simple yet flavorful side dish.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve as a dipping sauce alongside steamed gyoza or spring rolls for a dynamic taste.
• Veggie Wrap Enhancer: Enhance veggie wraps filled with fresh lettuce, sprouts, cucumbers, and avocado with a generous drizzle of the vinaigrette.
• Slaw Mix-In: Toss with a slaw made from thinly sliced cabbage, apples, and carrots for a tangy and crunchy accompaniment to burgers or sandwiches.
• Avocado Salad: Pour the vinaigrette over a simple avocado salad with cherry tomatoes and cilantro for a quick and healthy snack.
• Roasted Vegetables: Use the vinaigrette to season roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, adding a rich flavor profile to these hearty sides.
• Soba Noodle Flavor Boost: Mix the dressing into chilled soba noodles with sliced cucumber, radishes, and a sprinkle of nori or sesame seeds for a tasty noodle salad.

Top 5 FAQs about Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette

• What is Tamari and how does it differ from regular soy sauce? Tamari is a Japanese soy sauce that is made primarily from soybeans, while standard soy sauce typically includes wheat as well. Tamari has a richer, less salty taste, and its fermentation process differs from regular soy sauce. It’s generally thicker and darker in color and often used as a gluten-free alternative to regular soy sauce.
• Is Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette gluten-free? Yes, because tamari is typically made without wheat, it is a suitable option for those needing or choosing to follow a gluten-free diet. However, always check the label to ensure that the tamari used is certified gluten-free, as some brands may still contain traces of wheat.
• How can I balance the flavors in my Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette? To achieve a balanced flavor, you’ll want to mix the rich umami flavor of tamari with some acidity from vinegar—apple cider or rice vinegar work well. If desired, add a touch of sweetness with agave syrup or maple syrup to counteract the saltiness and whisk in some finely minced garlic and ginger for depth and complexity.
• What can Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette be used for besides salad dressing? This versatile vinaigrette can be used as a marinade for plant proteins like tofu and tempeh, a dipping sauce for spring rolls or dumplings, and a flavor enhancer in stir-fries or grain bowls.
• How should I store Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette and how long will it last? Store your vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for up to two weeks. Since it contains no dairy or preservatives, it’s best to consume the vinaigrette while it’s fresh for optimum flavor.

In conclusion, Vegan Tamari Vinaigrette is a harmonious blend of savory and tangy flavors that appeals to a wide range of palates, particularly those seeking plant-based or gluten-free options. This vinaigrette combines the umami depth of high-quality tamari with the bright acidity of vinegars like rice or apple cider vinegar, striking a delightful balance that can elevate even the simplest of dishes.