What is tahini?
Tahini sauce is a creamy and flavorful condiment made from ground sesame seeds. It is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, known for its rich and nutty taste. Toasted sesame and olive oil in Tahini sauce recipe adds depth and richness to dishes as a dip, dressing or sauce.
Tahini sauce is commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines like hummus, falafel, and various salads. It also pairs well with vegetables, grilled meats, and roasted vegetables, adding a creamy and slightly tangy element to the dish. The nutty flavor of tahini sauce adds complexity and depth to recipes, making it a staple in many culinary traditions.
Tahini sauce recipe
To make tahini sauce, firstly, toast sesame seeds to enhance their flavor. Then, ground them into a smooth paste along with some oil, typically olive oil, to create a creamy consistency. Add others ingredients such as lemon juice, garlic, salt, and sometimes water to balance the flavors and achieve the desired texture for the sauce. The process results in a versatile sauce that adds a delightful taste to a variety of dishes.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making tahini sauce:
Tahini sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup of sesame seeds
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1. Toast 1 cup of sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
Step 2. Allow the toasted sesame seeds to cool, then transfer them to a food processor or blender. While waiting, mince the garlic/ squeeze lemon juice if needed.
Step 3. Process the sesame seeds for a few minutes until they form a thick paste. Scrape down the sides of the processor or blender as needed.
Step 4. Gradually add 4 tablespoons of olive oil while the processor or blender is running. Continue processing until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 5. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of salt to the tahini mixture. Process for an additional minute to combine all the flavors.
Step 6. If the tahini sauce is too thick, you can add 2-4 tablespoons of cold water to achieve your desired consistency. Blend again until well incorporated.
Step 7. Taste the tahini sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or lemon juice to suit your preference.
Step 8. Transfer the tahini sauce to a jar or airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to a week.
Nutrition
Now you have a delicious homemade tahini sauce ready to enhance your dishes. Drizzle it over Jerusalem chickpea egg salad, use it as a dip for veggies or pita bread, or incorporate it into various recipes for a delightful nutty flavor. Enjoy the versatility and taste of this simple yet delightful sauce.