Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for preparing a viscous dressing. The dressing may be prepared using batch techniques, however, the method is particularly suitable for a continuous process for preparing viscous dressings. In the method, a gum blend is prepared which includes a gum and a diluent. A spice blend is prepared which includes water, a sweetener, spices and/or flavorings. An aqueous dispersion of a microreticulated microcrystalline cellulose is prepared. The gum blend, the spice blend and the microreticulated microcrystalline cellulose dispersion are then combined to provide a premix. The premix is then blended with a pre-prepared starch base to provide the viscous dressing product of the invention.