Tahini

What Is Tahini?

Tahini is a fluid, dense-textured sesame paste obtained by first roasting sesame seeds and then grinding them on a stone or in an industrial mill. It is a staple of breakfast spreads in Turkish cuisine and a fundamental component of hummus in Middle Eastern cuisine.

Its color ranges from light cream to dark brown depending on the degree of roasting; darkly roasted tahini gives a more intense-bitterish taste, while lightly roasted tahini has a gentler flavor.

Nutritional Values of Tahini

100 grams of tahini contains approximately 595 kcal of energy; it carries intense fat from sesame and a significant amount of plant-based protein, and also contains minerals such as calcium and iron. Values vary by brand, and are approximate.

How Should Tahini Be Consumed?

Tahini is consumed in measured amounts as part of a balanced diet, as a bread spread, sauce component or dessert ingredient; since its fat content is high, portion control is recommended.

This information is general; tahini is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Those with a sesame allergy should avoid tahini and products containing it.

How Should Tahini Be Selected?

Good tahini has a cream-light brown color, a freshly-roasted sesame smell, and lists only sesame in its ingredients. Rancid or sour-smelling tahini has gone stale.

• Ingredients list should show only sesame (and usually salt)
• Smell should be freshly roasted sesame, not bitterish-sour
• If separation occurs in the jar, the bottom layer should be fluid-creamy, not solidified

How Should Tahini Be Stored?

Tahini can be stored for months in a closed jar in a cool, dark cabinet; storing it in the refrigerator after opening delays the rancidity of its oil and extends its shelf life.

Using Tahini in the Kitchen

Tahini is most often used in the tahini-molasses breakfast combo, in Middle Eastern mezes such as hummus and baba ganoush, in tahini-based sauces, and in desserts such as shortbread cookies and tahini halva.

Why Is Tahini Stirred Before Use?

Its natural oil rises to the top over time, leaving a solid layer at the bottom; stirring it thoroughly before use ensures a homogeneous consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tahini and sesame paste the same thing?

Yes; "tahin" is the Turkish name for roasted sesame paste, also known as "tahini" in the Middle East.

Is tahini vegan?

Yes; it is a completely plant-based product, containing no animal ingredients.

Can tahini be made at home?

Yes; hulled sesame seeds are roasted and ground in a strong blender or food processor until they reach a fluid paste consistency.