Tahini: Everything You Need to Know
We all know the famous hummus dip, with it’s different versions all over the world. But did you know that it has one ingredient that is famous in it’s own right? Everybody’s favorite, tahini to be specific! Let’s talk about tahini and everything you need to know about it.
What’s Tahini?
Tahini, also known for various names like Tahina and Ardeh, is a toasted ground hulled sesame seed-based condiment. It is famously used in a lot of well known Eastern Mediterranean cuisines, but has also gained popularity in China and other Southeast Asian nations.
Basically, the tahini can be used as a standalone dip, which is a must-have in most Mediterranean dishes. Although it is also a major ingredient of hummus, halva, and baba ghanoush. Those are already famous appetizers, so take that popularity and the tahini can make a name of its own.
Everything You Need to Know About Tahini
Now that we know a bit of what tahini is, let’s delve deeper into this delectable dip/spread/ingredient and discover things you might not have known previously about it.
It’s Versatility is Endless
We already know that you can use tahini as a dip or even as a component to the widely-known hummus. But more than than, there are various ways you can enjoy this yummy substance. It can be used as a base for sauces due to its creamy texture, try it as a salad dressing, transform the way you enjoy pasta, and even create a tahini-based ice cream! Your imagination is the only limit to the way you can use it.
Tahini is a Healthy Addition to Any Dish
One compelling reason why people choose to experiment with tahini is not only because of its delicious taste, but also the health benefits it can bring. It is known to pack more protein that most nuts and milk. It even has various vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins for brain function and energy, vitamin E for lesser risks of stroke and heart disease, plus calcium, iron, and magnesium. That’s a lot of great things from a humble condiment!
Creating Homemade Tahini is Easy as Pie
If you thought a dish this beneficial can only be bought in stores, you’re wrong. You can make your own tahini at home with white hulled sesame seeds, grapeseed or olive oil, an oven, and a food processor! And the best thing is that it takes only 20 minutes to create your own version, with prep time and cooking time combined. Easy and cost-effective!
It is Going to Have its Own Film
If you still don’t believe the impact of tahini in your life, then perhaps a documentary will? A “Tahini the Movie” is in the works, which pays homage to this healthy dish. Coincidentally, the same team that made “Hummus the Movie” is working on it. What are the odds?
We could go on and on, but let’s leave it at this bite-sized information for now. Interested to try it out?
Many people cannot tolerate peanut butter due to allergies, so tahini is a good alternative. Also the taste of tahini is not as strong as peanut butter so it’s a good alternative for people who simply don’t like the taste of peanut butter. Use it on sandwiches and in wraps to give some extra flavor and it’s much healthier than salad creams and many other condiments. Add to that the fact that you have made it yourself at home, and you can be sure you are getting all the good nutrients out of your home made tahini.