Your taste buds will thank you when you use this creamy Tahini on just about anything!
Of the many delicious dippable sauces, hummus is heavenly. But did you know that one of the main ingredients in hummus is actually tahini? If you want to make your own hummus, you have to start with this base. Luckily, it only takes a few ingredients to make a batch at home.
Each batch of tahini has distinctive flavors, depending on the type of oil you’re using and whether your sesame seeds are roasted or raw. However, traditional tahini has strong savory and nutty notes with hints of earthiness. While you might pick up a touch of bitterness in tahini, this flavor shouldn’t be overpowering. You also shouldn’t notice excessive sweetness in your tahini. For the most intense flavors, try roasting your sesame seeds before blending them. Otherwise, use raw hulled sesame seeds for a milder flavor experience.
Whether you love loading up classic pita chips or topping crisp veggies, there are so many ways this creamy dip adds a rich flavor to your favorite foods. Plus, with its high fiber content, you don’t have to feel guilty about adding a little hummus to your snack time!
Is Tahini Healthy?
Tahini is a mix of hulled sesame seeds and oil, both of which have healthy nutritional profiles. You’ll want to stick to a nutrient-dense oil like avocado or olive oil, as they provide good sources of monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. Sesame seeds are also packed with antioxidants, calcium, fiber and good fats.
You could also add healthy spices like turmeric, ginger, or cayenne pepper if you want some extra nutritional benefits (and flavor!) directly in your tahini. Although it’s not common to add additional spices to a tahini recipe, feel free to experiment with this recipe and make it your own unique blend.
Be Prepared To Stir
Please don’t panic if you see your tahini start to separate. It’s totally natural for tahini to form layers as the oil separates from the solids. While this may look strange, it doesn’t mean your tahini has gone bad (as long as it doesn’t show warning signs like mold or a bad smell).
Although separation is completely natural in tahini, you’ll need to mix it before serving. If you had your tahini chilling in the fridge, it sometimes helps to microwave it for about 30 seconds to loosen everything up. Also, consider storing your tahini upside down in your airtight container to help the oil distribute evenly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
After you’ve whipped up your delicious tahini, all you have to do is put your mixture in an airtight container like a glass mason jar and store it in the fridge. Typically, tahini should last up to 1 week in the fridge, but you should always check for spoilage. Just remember that separation is A-OK.
Serving Suggestions
I think one of the most fun ways to enjoy tahini is as part of a dipping tray with Homemade Hummus and Creamy Baba Ghanoush. These flavors all work together so well when you’re dipping pita chips or fresh veggies.
But it’s not all about Mediterranean spreads. There are plenty of other creative ways to put your tahini to good use in the kitchen. For instance, try drizzling Miso-Lemon-Tahini Dressing on this Healthy Crunchy Quinoa Salad (With Pistachios). Tahini is so versatile that you could even use it in baked goodies like these Paleo Sweet Potato Brownies With Tahini to add an extra touch of nuttiness to your sweets.
Ingredients
- 1 cup hulled sesame seeds
- Pinch of salt optional
- 2-4 tablespoons neutral oil such as avocado or light olive oil
Instructions
- Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Allow to cool.
- Transfer cooled sesame seeds to a food processor. Add a pinch of salt if desired, and blend into a crumbly paste, about 1 minute.
- While processing, gradually add oil until a smooth, pourable consistency is achieved, about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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