Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup Tahini (Good quality, smooth)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 2 large cloves Garlic (Finely grated or crushed)
  • 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp Ice Water (very cold water)
  • 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Optional, for richness)
  • 1/2 tsp Fine Sea Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Instructions:

  1. Combine the Core Ingredients: In your mixing bowl, whisk together the tahini, fresh lemon juice, and grated garlic until well combined.
  2. Observe the Seizing: After about 30 seconds of whisking, the mixture will suddenly seize up and become very thick, pale, and almost paste-like. This is normal and means the emulsion process is beginning.
  3. Rest (Optional but Recommended): Let the seized mixture rest for 1-2 minutes. This allows the lemon acid to slightly mellow the raw garlic flavor.
  4. Introduce the Water: Pour in half (about 60 ml) of the measured ice water. Whisk vigorously and continuously for 1 minute.
  5. Achieve Creaminess: The mixture will break and then rapidly smooth out, becoming significantly lighter in colour and much more liquid. If the dressing is still too thick, slowly add the remaining water, whisking constantly, until the desired pourable consistency (similar to thick double cream) is reached.
  6. Seasoning: Add the sea salt and black pepper. Whisk to incorporate fully.
  7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing. Adjust the flavor by adding more lemon juice for zing, or stirring in the optional tablespoon of olive oil for extra richness.
  8. Storage: Transfer the finished dressing to an airtight container. It will thicken slightly upon chilling. For best flavor, prepare at least 30 minutes before serving.