To an American, the term "French dressing" can call to mind a creamy, tomato-based mixture, but in France, a true French dressing requires a more vinaigrette-style approach, according to Food Timeline. No one definitive recipe for French dressing exists, but most versions contain some combination of the same key ingredients.
Oil
Any recipe for French dressing requires some type of oil. Olive oil would be the most traditionally "French" choice--as one of the most flavorful oils, it is well-suited for dressings and marinades. If you are adding a number of other flavorings (and willing to go a more "American" route), you can use another type of vegetable oil, such as canola oil or soybean oil. Avoid sesame oil, which has a distinctive flavor that may overpower the rest of your dressing.
Vinegar or Lemon Juice
To add some tartness to French dressing, you should include either vinegar or lemon juice. The most common types of vinegar used in this dressing are apple cider vinegar (sometimes just called cider vinegar), white wine vinegar, red wine vinegar or white vinegar. The ratio of vinegar or lemon juice to oil should typically be 1 to 3 or 1 to 4.
Seasonings, French Version
For an authentic French approach, additional seasonings should be kept to a minimum. In the simplest French dressing, this could mean only adding salt and pepper. However, it is standard practice to also include minced garlic or other herbs, a bit of sugar and mustard. Depending on the recipe, the mustard could take the form of fresh Dijon or dry mustard, which is a spice made from grinding mustard seeds into a powder.
Seasonings, American Version
To achieve a more American-style tomato-based dressing, you will need to add either ketchup or condensed tomato soup. You will also need sugar, to cut the acidity of the tomato product used. Other common additions to "American" French dressing are salt, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, minced garlic, finely chopped onion and hot sauce.
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