Description
Tahini is a smooth, creamy paste made from ground sesame seeds. It’s a key ingredient in many Middle Eastern dishes, known for its rich, nutty flavor. Homemade tahini is easy to make and can be used in a variety of recipes, from dressings and dips to baked goods.
Ingredients
1 cup (140g) sesame seeds, we prefer hulled
2 to 4 tablespoons neutral flavored oil such as avocado, grape seed, vegetable, or a light olive oil
Pinch of salt, optional
Instructions
Toast Sesame Seeds 
Add sesame seeds to a wide, dry saucepan over medium-low heat.
Toast, stirring constantly until fragrant and turn light golden in color, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Be careful; sesame seeds can burn quickly.
Make Tahini
Add the toasted sesame seeds to the bowl of a food processor.
Process until a crumbly paste forms, about 1 minute.
Add 2 tablespoons of the oil, then process for 2 to 3 minutes more, stopping to scrape the bottom and sides of the food processor a couple of times.
Check the tahini’s consistency. It should be smooth, not gritty, and pourable. You may need to process for another minute and add 1 to 2 more tablespoons of oil.
Taste the tahini for seasoning, then add salt to taste. Process 5 to 10 seconds to mix.
Store and Enjoy
Store tahini in an airtight container for one month.
It might separate over time like natural peanut butter. If this happens, give the tahini a good stir before using it.
Notes
- The amount of oil required can vary depending on the freshness of the sesame seeds and the desired consistency.
- Store tahini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month.
- If your sesame seeds are not breaking down, try increasing the amount in the bowl or using a higher-powered processor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Calories: 89
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 3.2g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Protein: 2.6g