Paste, Condiment, Nut/Seed Butter | Vegan Gluten Free Ketogenic

Tahini

Sesamum indicum Allergens: Sesame
tahini

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Pedaliaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Middle Eastern, Mediterranean
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Sesame Seeds

The Forktionary Angle

"Master the art of cooking with Tahini, the Middle Eastern essential."

Definition

A paste made from ground, hulled sesame seeds, offering a rich, nutty, and slightly bitter flavor, essential in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines.

Sensory Profile

TasteNutty, Earthy, Slightly Bitter, Umami, Rich
TextureSmooth, Creamy, Thick, Oily, sometimes slightly gritty
AromaToasted Sesame, Earthy, Nutty
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Oil Content

Up to 50-60%

Sesame Seed Global Production (2022)

Approx. 7.5 million metric tons

Shelf Life (unopened)

Up to 2 years

Nutrition Facts

Per 15g (1 tbsp)
Calories595 kcal
Total Fat54 g
Saturated Fat8 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein17 g
Total Carbohydrate21 g
Dietary Fiber12 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium420 mg
Iron9 mg
Potassium400 mg

Chef’s Secret

To achieve the perfect smooth and creamy tahini sauce, always add cold water and lemon juice slowly while whisking vigorously. It will seize up and then loosen beautifully.

Substitutions

Best Match

Cashew Butter

1:1

Creamy texture, mild nutty flavor, good for sauces and dressings.

Peanut Butter

1:1

Stronger, distinct peanut flavor, good for savory dishes where peanut is acceptable.

Sunflower Seed Butter

1:1

Nut-free alternative, similar consistency, distinct sunflower flavor.

Almond Butter

1:1

Milder nutty flavor, creamy, good for desserts or dressings.

Buying Guide

Choose brands with minimal ingredients (just sesame seeds, possibly salt). Stir well before use as oil separation is natural. Refrigerate after opening.

Flavor Pairings

Lemon garlic chickpeas eggplant honey dates yogurt lamb fish.

Recipes Using Tahini

Dinner Party Middle Eastern Low Saturated Fat Lebanese

Middle Eastern Twice Baked Potatoes

Experience a culinary journey with our Middle Eastern Twice-Baked Potatoes! These aren't your average baked potatoes – we're transforming them into a low-fat, vegetarian delight packed with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors. Creamy mashed potatoes infused with savory chickpeas, aromatic cumin and coriander, zesty garlic, and a touch of tahini create a symphony of taste. Perfect as a side dish with your favorite roasts or Middle Eastern main course, or enjoy them as a light and satisfying vegetarian meal on their own. This improved recipe addresses previous dryness issues for a perfectly moist and flavorful experience.

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Occasion Lemon Low Saturated Fat Fruit

I Don T Believe It's Lemon Tofu Cheesecake

Get ready to be amazed! This unbelievably creamy and tangy lemon tofu cheesecake is dairy-free, vegan, and heart-healthy. Perfect for those with diabetic or heart-conscious diets, this recipe requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Just 5 minutes of prep, 35 minutes of baking, and 2 hours of chilling time result in a decadent dessert that will impress everyone. Believe the hype!

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Dietary Brunch Low In Something Low Cholesterol

Almond Hummus

Elevate your hummus game with this dreamy Almond Hummus recipe! Inspired by the Almond Board of California, this twist on a classic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dip adds a luxurious nutty flavor. Perfect as a healthy snack, appetizer, or spread for your favorite veggies and pita bread. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor – get ready to impress!

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Low Sodium Low Cholesterol Easy Cuisine

Arabian Cauliflower With Tahini

A vibrant and flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish! This quick and easy recipe features tender cauliflower tossed in a luscious tahini sauce, bursting with garlic, lemon, and warming spices. Perfect as a healthy weeknight meal or a delicious side dish, this Arabian Cauliflower with Creamy Tahini Sauce is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

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15 Minutes Or Less Dietary 15 Minutes Or Less Course

Asian Hummous

Elevate your appetizer game with this vibrant Asian Hummus! Inspired by Bon Appetit (January 2006), this recipe uses canned beans for a speedy prep time, but don't skimp on the star anise – it's the key to unlocking its unique flavor. Serve with shrimp chips or your favorite spicy potato chips for an unforgettable snack or starter. Get ready for a burst of Asian-inspired flavors in just 15 minutes!

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Appetizers Preparation Course Appetizers

B Nutty Dip Aka Lucky 13 Hummus

This lucky #13 hummus recipe is a protein-packed, lemony, garlicky, and nutty twist on a classic! Made with 13 ingredients (each using amounts of 1 or 3), this dip is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a spread on sandwiches, with pita chips, or as a healthy snack with veggies. Prepare for a flavor explosion!

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Number Of Servings Free Of Something Cuisine Low Cholesterol

Baba Ganouj Baba Ghanoush

Experience the smoky, creamy delight of authentic Baba Ghanoush! This recipe delivers a vibrant and flavorful eggplant dip, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a healthy and satisfying snack. Our easy-to-follow instructions guide you through roasting the eggplant to perfection, resulting in a luxuriously smooth and subtly smoky dip. Topped with fresh scallions and a drizzle of olive oil, this Baba Ghanoush is a taste of the Mediterranean that will leave you wanting more!

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60 Minutes Or Less Dietary Heirloom Historical Brunch

Baba Ganoush The Best In The World

Experience pure culinary bliss with this incredible Baba Ganoush recipe, adapted from Joanne Weir's Williams-Sonoma's Small Plates (1998). This isn't your average dip; it's a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. Perfectly smoky eggplant, creamy tahini, zesty lemon, and fragrant garlic create a harmonious blend you won't soon forget. Impress your friends and family with this restaurant-quality recipe – easily made at home!

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Weeknight Preparation Indian 4 Hours Or Less

Baba Ganouy Baba Ghanoush Baba Gannoujh

Experience the rich, smoky flavor of authentic Baba Ghanoush! This creamy eggplant dip is perfect for veggies, pita bread, toasted pompadams, tortilla chips, or as a unique spread for sandwiches. Our recipe uses perfectly roasted eggplants for a luxuriously smooth texture and unforgettable taste. Elevate your appetizers or add a delicious twist to your meals!

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Cuisine Asian Course Preparation

Baba Ghanouj Roast Eggplant Puree

Experience the smoky, creamy delight of homemade Baba Ghanoush! This irresistible recipe, inspired by SallyBernstein.com, elevates the classic eggplant dip to new heights. Perfectly roasted eggplant, vibrant lemon, and nutty tahini combine for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Easy to follow instructions guide you to a restaurant-quality dip in under 2 hours. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or a flavorful side dish!

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Dips Lunch Holiday Event Vegetarian

Baba Ghanoush Rachael Ray

Experience the smoky, creamy delight of Rachael Ray's Baba Ghanoush! This easy recipe, adapted from Everyday with Rachael Ray magazine, delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 35 minutes. Perfectly roasted eggplant forms the base of this addictive dip, bursting with the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and fresh parsley. Serve with warm pita bread for the ultimate appetizer or side dish.

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Vegetarian Healthy Preparation Low Protein

Baked Falafel Sandwich

Skip the deep fryer and enjoy these healthy, baked falafel sandwiches! This Weight Watchers-inspired recipe delivers amazing flavor without the guilt. Perfectly seasoned chickpea patties are baked to golden perfection, then nestled in pita bread with fresh veggies and a creamy tahini dressing. A quick, easy, and healthier twist on a classic!

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Low Fat Main Ingredient Dietary 60 Minutes Or Less

Bean And Rice Patties In Pita With Yogurt Tahini Dressing

Craving a healthier, flavorful twist on falafel? These hearty bean and rice patties, inspired by Moosewood's low-fat favorites, are packed with spices and nestled in warm pita bread with a creamy yogurt-tahini dressing. A fantastic vegetarian meal that's quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! Customize the spice level to your liking – more cumin and cayenne are always welcome! Prep time excludes brown rice cooking.

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Inexpensive Free Of Something Dietary Main Ingredient

Beanless Hummus

Craving hummus but need a chickpea-free option? This vibrant, raw recipe delivers incredible flavor without the legumes! Perfect for those with chickpea allergies or sensitivities, this creamy dip tastes remarkably similar to traditional hummus and is ready in minutes. A delightful and healthy appetizer or snack!

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Main Ingredient Easy Salads Course

Beet Kale Salad

Transform tough kale into a vibrant and surprisingly delicious salad! This recipe features earthy beets and a zesty dressing that will make you rethink raw kale. Quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy lunch or side dish.

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Easy Main Ingredient Chick Peas Garbanzos Course

Best Israeli Hummus

Craving authentic Israeli hummus? This recipe comes incredibly close to the creamy, dreamy hummus you'll find throughout Israel! We've streamlined the process with canned chickpeas for ultimate convenience, but feel free to use dried for a deeper flavor (instructions may vary slightly). Get ready to experience the taste of Israel in your own kitchen – perfect with warm pita and your favorite toppings!

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation Course

Easy Saudi Kabsa Zainab's Gluten Free

Experience the vibrant flavors of Saudi Arabia with this easy gluten-free Kabsa recipe! Tender chicken breasts are paired with fragrant spiced yellow rice and a delicious tomato sauce (or use our tomato-free alternative – Recipe #359835). This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is easily customizable to your taste. Inspired by ArabicBites.

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