Equipment
Ingredients
Base Flavor
- 60 ml orange juice, freshly squeezed
- 60 g honey
- 30 ml apple cider vinegar
- 10 g dijon mustard
Emulsion & Seasoning
- 120 ml neutral oil
- 10 g poppy seeds
- 3 g kosher salt
- 2 g onion powder
Nutrition (per serving)
Method
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and onion powder. Whisk vigorously until the honey is completely dissolved and the mixture is uniform.
While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle the neutral oil into the bowl in a thin, steady stream. Continue whisking until the dressing becomes thick, glossy, and fully emulsified.
Add the poppy seeds to the emulsified dressing and gently whisk just until they are evenly distributed throughout the liquid.
Cover the bowl or transfer the dressing to an airtight jar and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the poppy seeds to soften slightly before serving.
Chef's Notes
- Toasting the poppy seeds briefly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding them will deeply amplify their natural nutty flavor.
- The Dijon mustard is critical here not just for flavor, but for its mucilage content which acts as a powerful emulsifier to bind the water and oil phases together.
- Using a neutral oil like avocado or grapeseed is strongly recommended over extra virgin olive oil, which can bring a bitter, peppery note that masks the delicate orange and honey profile.
Storage
Refrigerator: 2 weeks — Store in an airtight jar. Shake vigorously before each use as natural separation will occur.
