Growing up in the Middle East, Tahini was a staple in our home and almost every home! This easy tahini sauce recipe is creamy, tangy, and nutty. It has a rich taste and smooth texture, making it the ultimate dip (mezze), spread, or salad dressing.
What is Tahini?
Tahini reigns supreme in the hearts and minds of almost all middle eastern folks, especially my family and friends, making it a common ingredient in popular sweet and savory foods, such as hummus, baba ghanoush, and halva.
Tahini is a thick paste made from toasted and ground Sesame Seeds. It has a slightly bitter, savory taste and a smooth texture like nut butter.
Tahini is Vegan, Dairy-free, Gluten-free, and can be part of Paleo and keto diets!
Is Tahini good for you?
- Tahini is relatively low in calories, but it’s high in fiber, protein, and essential minerals such as Copper and Selenium making it a healthy alternative to sugar filled condiments such as ketchup!
- Copper: Copper is an essential element and it provides a lot of health benefits, such as the absorption of dietary iron (Iron that exists in your food) and regulating blood pressure (1)
- Selenium helps decrease inflammation and promote immune health (2)
- Sesame Seeds (the main component of Tahini) have been linked to many heart-healthy effects such as lowering blood pressure (3)
- Tahini paste can be an ingredient for baking and desserts; it is an excellent alternative to peanut butter for peanut allergy or any nut allergy!
Downsides of consuming Tahini
- Tahini is high on fats! Omega-6 fatty acids are considered healthy fats, yet it’s still important to keep your overall fat intake moderate, especially if you are trying to lose weight!
- Tahini can cause a severe allergic reaction in individuals who are allergic to sesame!
Where to find in Stores?
You can find Tahini in major grocery stores, at the international foods aisle, and also in Middle Eastern grocery stores, or you can get our favorite Tahini online here! (Affiliate link)
Tahini Sauce Ingredients:
This tahini sauce has basic and simple ingredients available in every pantry.
- Tahini paste: This recipe is all about Tahini. Make sure to choose the best Tahini. (Affiliate Link)
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice for a bright flavor!
- White Vinegar: This is my secret for the best tahini sauce; just add a little bit to get a tangy taste.
- Fresh Minced Garlic: Gives a garlicky kick.
- Ground Cumin and Sea Salt: Enhance the taste.
- Water: Adding warm water gives the smoothest, creamiest, and brightest Tahini.
- Fresh parsley: Use fresh chopped parsley as a garnish and to add an extra layer of flavor!
How to make the Best Tahini Sauce?
This recipe is easy and quick to make; whisk the tahini paste, water, lemon juice, white vinegar, minced garlic, cumin, and salt together and add the fresh chopped parsley on top. And you are all set!
Tips:
- If you prefer your tahini sauce as a dip or spread, use less water; but Tahini sauce should generally have a runny consistency!
- Keep in mind that using warm water will result in runny tahini, but don’t worry, it will start to thicken when it cools down, and you will get a perfect consistency.
- Tahini brands might have different consistencies, which will require you to shake or stir before use to mix the paste with the oil.
What to Serve with Tahini Sauce?
- Tahini sauce is perfect and yummy as a spread with the Falafel, Shawarmas, Fish, and Kabobs.
- Tahini sauce can be used as a dip with warm pita bread, freshly sliced veggies, or a Salad dressing.
How to Store?
Raw Tahini Jar: Raw Tahini should be refrigerated once opened, and it can last for at least six months refrigerated.
Tahini Sauce: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for 4-5 days.
CHECK OUT MORE RECIPES:
Traditional Garlic Sauce (Toum)