Perfect Tahini Sauce

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This is the perfect tahini sauce! Made from ground sesame seeds, tahini is a rich and flavorful paste that can be transformed into a delicious sauce perfect for drizzling over salads, grains, vegetables, and even grilled meats. It adds a Mediterranean flair to your dishes.

tahini sauce in a glass jar

What is Tahini Sauce?

Tahini sauce is a popular condiment in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and North African cuisines. It’s made by mixing sesame seed paste with lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and a little water to create a smooth, velvety sauce. This sauce has a nutty, rich flavor with a hint of acidity, making it a great complement to both savory and sweet dishes.

Benefits of Tahini Sauce:

  • Rich in healthy fats: Sesame seeds are full of unsaturated fats, which are great for heart health.
  • Packed with protein: It’s a plant-based source of protein, making it a fantastic option for vegetarians and vegans.
  • High in calcium: Tahini is naturally rich in calcium, which supports bone health.
  • Versatile: You can use this sauce in a variety of dishes, from savory bowls to sweet treats.
  • Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can make tahini sauce at home in minutes.

Ingredients for this easy sauce:

Gather the following ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup tahini (sesame paste)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup water (to adjust the thickness)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • A pinch of cumin

How to make Homemade Tahini Sauce

1. Combine the Garlic and Lemon Juice:

In a medium bowl, mix the 2-3 minced garlic cloves and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes so the garlic can flavor the lemon juice. Then, strain the mixture through a fine sieve into another medium bowl. Use a spatula to press the garlic solids and get as much liquid out as you can. Throw away the garlic.

2. Mix the Ingredients:

Add the 1/2 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of cumin to the lemon juice. Whisk until the mixture is well blended.

3. Thin with Water:

Add water little by little until you reach your desired consistency. For a thicker sauce, use less water; for a thinner sauce, add more water. If you’re using this tahini sauce as a dressing, it’s best to keep it a little thinner, but if you plan to use it as a dip, you might prefer it thicker.

4. Season:

Season your tahini sauce with additional salt, if needed.

5. Serve:

Once your sauce is smooth and well-mixed, it’s ready to use! Drizzle it over roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, falafel, or even a salad bowl. It’s also fantastic as a dip for pita bread or fresh vegetables.

Tips for the Perfect Tahini Sauce:

  • Adjust the flavor: This versatile sauce recipe can be adjusted to suit your personal taste. Add more lemon juice for acidity, garlic for boldness, or olive oil for richness. You can also add a little maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness.
  • Consistency: Keep in mind that this sauce will thicken as it sits. If you’re making it in advance, you can simply stir in a little more water to loosen it up before serving.
  • Storage: Store any leftover tahini sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Give it a quick stir before serving, as it may separate slightly in the fridge.

What to Pair with Tahini Sauce:

Tahini sauce is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

1. Falafel:

Tahini sauce is the perfect dip for crispy, golden falafel. The creamy sauce adds a richness that balances the flavors of the chickpea fritters.

2. Grilled Vegetables:

Drizzle tahini sauce over roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or cauliflower. It adds a nutty richness that enhances the natural sweetness of the veggies.

3. Salads:

Use tahini sauce as a creamy dressing for Mediterranean-inspired salads. Toss it with greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a fresh and vibrant meal.

4. Wraps and Pitas:

Tahini sauce makes a delicious addition to wraps or pita sandwiches filled with grilled chicken, lamb, or veggies. It’s also great with shawarma!

5. Bowl Meals:

Tahini sauce is perfect for drizzling over grain bowls or Buddha bowls. Pair it with quinoa, brown rice, chickpeas, and your favorite roasted veggies for a healthy, satisfying meal.

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