Whipped Carrot and Miso Dip

Put the carrots, oil, garlic, spices, the first measure of water and salt in a medium saucepan. Cover and cook gently, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes or until the carrots are very tender. Add a little extra water during cooking if needed to prevent them catching on the base of the saucepan. 

Stir in the cannellini beans to heat through. Tip into a food processor and add the remaining ingredients. Process until smooth and light in texture. 

Spoon into a serving dish and sprinkle over the furikake or sesame seeds. Makes 1½ cups.

Pantry note: Furikake is the salt and pepper of Japan. It’s a crunchy, salty, nutty, earthy, briny topping that is a great all-purpose seasoning for rice, seafood and snacks. Available at Asian food stores and some supermarkets.