Tahini Sauce Once Upon a Chef from www.onceuponachef.com
Introduction
Tahini is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in many different recipes. It is made from ground sesame seeds and has a nutty, slightly bitter flavor. Tahini is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and is used in dishes like hummus, baba ganoush, and falafel.
Ingredients
To make tahini, you will need the following ingredients:
1 cup sesame seeds
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
Sesame Seeds
The most important ingredient in tahini is sesame seeds. You can use either white or black sesame seeds, but white sesame seeds are more commonly used. Sesame seeds are a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used to give the tahini a creamy texture and to enhance the nutty flavor of the sesame seeds. You can use any type of olive oil, but extra-virgin olive oil is the best choice.
Salt
A small amount of salt is added to the tahini to enhance the flavor.
Instructions
Making tahini is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. Here's how to make it:
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Spread the sesame seeds on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Let the sesame seeds cool for a few minutes, then transfer them to a food processor or blender.
Add the olive oil and salt to the food processor.
Pulse the mixture for 1-2 minutes, or until it is smooth and creamy.
If the tahini is too thick, you can add more olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency.
Transfer the tahini to a jar or container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
Tahini is a nutritious ingredient that is packed with vitamins and minerals. Here's the nutritional information for 1 tablespoon of tahini:
Calories: 89
Protein: 2.6 grams
Fat: 8.1 grams
Carbohydrates: 2.6 grams
Fiber: 1.3 grams
Sugar: 0 grams
Tahini is a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and calcium.
Uses
Tahini is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different recipes. Here are some ideas:
Hummus: Tahini is a key ingredient in hummus and adds a creamy texture and nutty flavor.
Baba Ganoush: Tahini is also used in baba ganoush, a Middle Eastern dip made from roasted eggplant.
Sauces: Tahini can be used to make delicious sauces for salads, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats.
Baked Goods: Tahini can be used in baked goods like cookies and cakes to add a nutty flavor.
Conclusion
Tahini is a delicious and nutritious ingredient that is easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different recipes. Try making tahini at home and experiment with different ways to use it in your cooking.
