Description
This Easy Homemade Tahini recipe guides you through making a smooth, creamy sesame seed paste right at home. Toasted sesame seeds blended with olive oil, salt, and optional flavorings create a flavorful tahini that’s perfect for dressings, dips, or adding richness to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Sesame Seeds
- 1 cup Sesame Seeds (Toasted for enhanced flavor)
Wet Ingredients
- 2-3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (For creaminess and richness)
- 2-4 tablespoons Water (To achieve desired consistency)
Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt (Adjust to taste)
Optional Flavorings
- Garlic powder
- Lemon juice
- Other spices as desired
Instructions
- Toast the Sesame Seeds: Place the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them for 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and release a fragrant aroma, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Cool the Seeds: Remove the skillet from heat and let the toasted sesame seeds cool for a few minutes to avoid overheating the food processor and to preserve their nutty flavor.
- Prepare to Blend: Transfer the cooled sesame seeds to a food processor. Add the extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and any optional flavorings such as garlic powder or lemon juice you prefer.
- Initial Blending: Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. The mixture will become crumbly and start to combine.
- Add Water Gradually: While blending, slowly add 2-4 tablespoons of water to the mixture. Continue blending for about 2-3 minutes until the tahini becomes smooth and creamy, adjusting the water amount to reach your preferred consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the tahini and adjust the salt or any additional flavorings to your liking. Blend briefly again to incorporate any changes.
- Store the Tahini: Transfer the finished tahini to a clean jar. Seal it tightly and refrigerate. The tahini will last for several weeks when refrigerated.
Notes
- Toasting the sesame seeds enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you prefer raw tahini.
- Adjust the water quantity according to how thick or thin you prefer your tahini.
- Experiment with optional additions like smoked paprika or cumin for unique flavors.
- Store tahini in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Stir the tahini before each use as natural separation may occur.
