Classic Homemade Tahini
Learn how to make rich, smooth, and incredibly flavorful homemade tahini paste using just two simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- •2 cups hulled sesame seeds (280g)
- •1/4 cup light olive oil or neutral vegetable oil (60ml)
- •1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spread the sesame seeds evenly on a large rimmed baking sheet.
- 2
Bake the sesame seeds for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring once halfway through, just until they are fragrant and very lightly golden. Do not let them brown too much or the tahini will turn bitter.
- 3
Remove the toasted sesame seeds from the oven and transfer them to a large plate or bowl to cool down completely.
- 4
Transfer the cooled sesame seeds to a high-powered food processor or blender.
- 5
Process the seeds alone for about 1 to 2 minutes until they break down into a crumbly, coarse meal.
- 6
Drizzle in the oil and add the salt while the food processor is running.
- 7
Continue to process for another 2 to 3 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl, until the mixture becomes completely smooth, pourable, and glossy.
💡 Chef tips
- Store homemade tahini in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to one month; give it a good stir before using if any natural oil separation occurs.
- For an even richer flavor, you can use lightly toasted sesame seeds straight from the package, but toasting them yourself unlocks maximum aroma.
- If your tahini feels too thick, blend in an extra tablespoon of neutral oil until you reach your desired consistency.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished tahini should be wonderfully smooth, creamy, and pourable with a rich, nutty aroma and a savory, deeply comforting sesame flavor.