Tahini (also called Tahina) is a smooth, fine paste made from ground sesame seeds and oil. This homemade version uses lightly toasted white sesame seeds and sunflower oil. It has a mild, nutty flavor and creamy texture. Tahini is mostly used in dips, sauces, and dressings.

Recipe Snapshot

  • Prep time: 1 minutes
  • Cook time: 2 minutes
  • Total time: 3 minutes
  • Yield: 1 · 1 Small Jar
  • Category: Condiment
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern, World

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (135 grams) white sesame seeds
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or add according to taste)
  • 3 to 5 tablespoons sunflower oil (or add as needed, can use any neutral flavored oil)

Method

  1. Lightly toast the sesame seeds on low heat for 2 to 3 minutes or until aromatic. Stir often.
  2. Cool them completely before blending.
  3. Grind the seeds and salt in a blender or food processor until powdery.
  4. Add 3 tablespoons oil gradually and blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, add 1 to 2 more tablespoons oil while blending.
  5. Check the taste and add more salt if needed.
  6. Transfer to a jar and refrigerate. Tahini keeps well for 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator.

Kiyaan Singh’s Kitchen Note

Keep this recipe as a working base: cook once as written, then adjust spice, texture, and serving style for your own table.