tahini

Tahini

Tahini is a smooth, rich paste made from ground sesame seeds. It has a nutty, slightly bitter flavor and a creamy, almost oily texture. Its color ranges from off-white to light tan. Often used as a base for dips and sauces, tahini adds a unique depth of flavor to Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Looking for a versatile ingredient to create delicious hummus or dress your salads? Explore the many culinary applications of this sesame seed paste and elevate your dishes with its distinctive taste.

Common Uses

  • Making Hummus: Tahini is a key ingredient in authentic hummus, lending its characteristic creamy texture and nutty flavor. Use it to create a smooth, flavorful base for your favorite hummus recipe.
  • Creating Dressings and Sauces: Tahini's rich flavor and smooth consistency make it a great addition to salad dressings, sauces, and dips. Try whisking it with lemon juice, garlic, and water for a simple and delicious tahini dressing.
  • Baking: Tahini can be incorporated into baked goods like cookies, cakes, and breads. It adds moisture, a subtle nutty flavor, and a unique texture to these items. Looking to elevate your baked goods? Consider tahini.
  • Drizzling on Roasted Vegetables: Tahini adds a savory, nutty touch to roasted vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, and sweet potatoes. Simply drizzle tahini over the roasted vegetables and season to taste. Enjoy a wholesome side dish!
  • Making Halva: Tahini is the primary ingredient in halva, a sweet confection popular in the Middle East and beyond. The paste is combined with sugar or honey to create a dense, sweet treat.
  • Spreading on Toast or Sandwiches: Spread tahini on toast or sandwiches as a nutritious and flavorful alternative to butter or mayonnaise. Consider adding some honey, dates, or other toppings for added sweetness and flavor.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

88.7kcal (4.44%)

Protein

2.5g (5.1%)

Carbs

3.2g (1.15%)

Sugars

0.1g (0.24%)

Healthy Fat

6.5g

Unhealthy Fat

1.1g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • May help lower cholesterol due to its high content of phytosterols.
  • Good source of calcium, important for bone health and preventing osteoporosis.
  • Rich in healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, beneficial for heart health.
  • Contains antioxidants like sesamol and sesamin, which can protect against cell damage.
  • Provides iron, essential for red blood cell production and energy levels.
  • Offers a good amount of protein, contributing to muscle building and repair.

Storage Tips

Tahini should be stored in a cool, dark place. An unopened jar can be kept at room temperature until the expiration date. Once opened, it's best to refrigerate it to prevent it from going rancid, especially if you live in a warm climate. Refrigeration may cause it to thicken, but it will return to its normal consistency when brought to room temperature. Stir well before each use, as the oil tends to separate. Properly stored tahini can last for several months in the refrigerator.

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