Tahini

Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, is a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Its rich, nutty flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. Here’s how tahini is commonly used in cooking:

Hummus: Tahini is a key ingredient in hummus, contributing to its creamy texture and unique flavor. It's mixed with pureed chickpeas, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to create this popular dip.

Sauces and Dressings: Tahini is used to make various sauces and dressings. It can be thinned with water or lemon juice and seasoned with garlic and herbs to drizzle over salads, grilled vegetables, and meats.

Baba Ganoush: In this Middle Eastern dish, tahini is mixed with roasted eggplant, garlic, lemon juice, and various seasonings to create a creamy, smoky dip.

Halva: Tahini is a primary component of halva, a sweet confection from the Middle East. Sugar or honey is combined with tahini to form a dense, sweet dessert, often enhanced with nuts or chocolate.

Baking: Tahini can be used in baking as a substitute for nut butters in cookies, brownies, and other baked goods. It adds a rich, nutty flavor to the recipes.

Marinades: Tahini serves as an excellent base for marinades, adding depth and richness to the marinade for poultry, fish, or vegetables.

Spread for Toast and Sandwiches: Like nut butter, tahini can be spread on toast or used in sandwiches, often combined with honey or jam.

Falafel: Tahini sauce is commonly served with falafel. It complements the deep-fried chickpea balls with its creaminess and balances their robust seasoning.

Smoothies: For an added protein and flavor boost, tahini can be incorporated into smoothies, giving them a creamy texture and nutty flavor.

Vegan Cooking: As a dairy-free, nut-free alternative, tahini is used in vegan recipes to add creaminess to sauces, soups, and desserts.

Tahini has a very rich oil content, making it incredibly creamy and ideal for blending into a smooth consistency. When using tahini, it’s important to stir it well before use, as the oil often separates and rises to the top of the container. Whether enhancing savory dishes or enriching desserts, tahini offers a distinctive taste and versatility that can elevate a variety of recipes.