Tahini
The ultimate creamy paste, Tahini is perfect for dips, dressings, and more! Made from toasted sesame seeds and olive oil, this versatile ingredient adds richness to any dish. It's quick to make and absolutely delicious, making it a must-try for your next meal!
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Skillet
- Food Processor
- Blender
Ingredients
- 3 cups sesame seeds hulled
- ¼ cup olive oil or more if needed
Instructions
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. The goal here is to toast your sesame seeds, so make sure it’s hot enough. Once ready, add 3 cups of sesame seeds and spread them out evenly in a single layer. Keep an eye on them, as they'll toast fairly quickly.
- Stir the seeds frequently. Toast them until they reach a light golden brown color. This is where the magic happens! The aroma of the seeds will be delightful, so be vigilant; you don’t want them to burn.
- Once the seeds are toasted, transfer them to a plate to cool. This step is crucial since blending hot seeds can create a paste that’s too thick and grainy.
- After the seeds have cooled, add them to a food processor or a high-powered blender. Blend them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they become crumbly and dry. You should see the transformation happening!
- Next, add in ¼ cup of olive oil to the mixture. Blend again for another 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll notice the texture begin to change as it becomes smoother.
- If it’s too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add more oil gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Some people prefer their Tahini a bit runnier, while others enjoy it thicker.
- Once it’s perfectly blended, taste your Tahini. Adjust the oil if necessary, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for the best flavor retention.
- Enjoy your homemade Tahini in a variety of dishes – it’s great for salads, dips, or even drizzled over roasted vegetables!
Notes
- Storage: Store your Tahini in a glass jar in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its freshness for longer.
- Freezing: You can freeze Tahini in small portions for easy access later. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
- Pairing: Pair Tahini with vegetables, grilled meats, or use it as a base for dressings and sauces.
- Flavor variations: Experiment with adding flavors like garlic or lemon juice for a twist on the classic Tahini.
- Use in desserts: Don’t restrict Tahini to savory dishes; try it in cookies or brownies for a unique flavor.