Homemade organic tahini

Hello everyone, if you are in search of a tahini for your recipes, look no further than your local ethnic food store.
But what exactly is Tahini? Tahini is a paste made from toasted and ground sesame seeds and is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and North African cuisine. There are many tahini producers around the world, but some of the largest and most well-known producers are located in the Middle East.

Quality of tahini can vary widely depending on the source and processing methods used. In my experience some producers use only high-quality sesame seeds and traditional production methods, resulting in a superior product, while others may use lower quality seeds or incorporate additives or preservatives. As with any food product, it’s important to research and choose a reputable brand that aligns with your preferences and values. Some small Turkish/ Israeli brands of tahini have proven to be of exceptional quality, with a rich and velvety texture that is simply divine.

However, if you find yourself in a bind and cannot get your hands on a jar of tahini, fear not! It is entirely possible to make your own homemade tahini, and the results can be simply amazing. One of the great advantages of making your own tahini is that the oil and sesame paste do not separate over time, which can be a common issue with store-bought varieties. Additionally, homemade tahini can be stored in the refrigerator for one and half months, making it a convenient and economical option for those who use tahini on a regular basis.

To make your own tahini, you will need just two ingredients: sesame seeds and oil. First, toast your sesame seeds in a dry skillet until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Then, after completely cooled transfer the toasted seeds to a food processor and add in some oil – I prefer to use a neutral oil like grapeseed oil, but you can use any oil of your choice. Start by adding a little bit of oil at a time, and process the mixture until it becomes a smooth and creamy paste. Add more oil as needed until you reach your desired consistency.

And that’s it, my dearest ones! Homemade tahini is that simple to make. Not only is it fresher and more flavorful than store-bought tahini, but it is also a fun and easy kitchen project to take on. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know how it turns out.

When you have tahini you can make super simple lemon garlic tahini dressing and serve with falafel or shawarma rolls!