What is tahini?
Tahini is a smooth paste made from ground sesame seeds, and a cornerstone of Middle Eastern cooking. It has a creamy, nutty and slightly bitter flavor, and is used in everything from dips and dressings to desserts. Think of it as peanut butter, but made from sesame and with a more delicate, grown-up flavor.
What tahini tastes like
Tahini is rich and nutty with a hint of bitterness, a bit like freshly ground sesame seeds. On its own it can seem intense, but when blended with acid like lemon, garlic or honey, it becomes soft, balanced and irresistible.
How to use tahini
- Hummus: The indispensable ingredient that gives hummus its creamy depth.
- Dressing: Whisk tahini with lemon, water and garlic for a silky salad dressing.
- Sauce: A classic topping for falafel, shawarma and grilled vegetables.
- Baking and dessert: Try tahini in cakes and cookies, or stir it together with honey and spread it on bread.
An important trick
Tahini often separates in the jar, with oil on top and firm paste at the bottom. Stir it thoroughly before use. When you mix tahini with water, it may first seize up and turn lumpy, but keep stirring and add more water gradually, and it will become smooth and creamy again.
Is tahini healthy?
Tahini is nutritious and contains healthy fats, protein, fiber and minerals like calcium and iron. It is energy-dense, so a little goes a long way, but it is a natural and nutrient-rich addition to your diet.
Storage
Unopened tahini keeps for a long time in the pantry. Once opened, it can be stored somewhere cool, and many prefer the fridge to keep the oil from going rancid. Let it come to room temperature and stir well before use.
Find tahini at FUDI
At FUDI you'll find good-quality tahini alongside other Middle Eastern staples like chickpeas, sumac and pomegranate syrup. With tahini in your pantry, you are just minutes away from homemade hummus and creamy dressings.
