Worth knowing about tahini...

Composition and nutritional value

Tahini sesame pastes are made from ground sesame seeds, making them an excellent source of protein and healthy fats (including unsaturated omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids). They also contain other nutrients such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. Before purchasing, it's worth checking the product label to make sure it doesn't contain added sugar, artificial substances, or preservatives.

No preservatives or artificial colorants

Well-selected tahini pastes should not contain preservatives or artificial colorants.

Preservatives are used in tahini pastes to extend shelf life by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and mold. Some tahini pastes may also contain artificial colorants to improve the color or appearance of the product. However, artificial colorants are often associated with potential health risks or negative effects on the digestive system.

Therefore, choose products with as natural an ingredient list as possible to avoid unnecessary additives.

Gluten-free and vegan options

Tahinis are a popular choice for those seeking gluten-free and vegan products. They are naturally free from gluten and animal-derived ingredients, making them suitable for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets. This versatility makes them an attractive ingredient for a wide range of consumers, regardless of dietary preferences. However, those seeking gluten-free and vegan products should always check product labels carefully to ensure they meet their dietary needs.

Varied texture and taste

The texture of tahini paste often depends on the sesame seed grinding process and the production method used. Pastes can come in various textures, from smooth and creamy to coarser and grainy.
Some people prefer a smooth tahini consistency, which is easy to spread and mixwhile others prefer a paste with a more grainy texture, which adds extra flavor and crunch to dishes.

The characteristic taste of tahini is rich, nutty, and slightly bitter, resulting from the natural flavor of sesame seeds. It can vary depending on the sesame variety, region of origin, and production process. Depending on personal preferences, some consumers prefer a more intense flavor, while others choose milder versions.

Whole grain pastes pastes usually have a darker color, coarse texture, and a more intense sesame flavor. Choose the one that suits your preferences.

Potential allergens

Tahini, being a paste made from ground sesame seeds, can pose a potential risk for those allergic to sesame. Sesame allergy is one of the more common food allergies and can manifest in various symptoms, from skin reactions like rashes and itching to digestive symptoms such as nausea and stomach aches, and even anaphylactic reactions, which can be life-threatening.

Contact with tahini or sesame-containing products can also pose a risk of cross-contamination for individuals allergic to other plant seeds or nuts. Therefore, people with seed or nut allergies should be cautious when consuming tahini-containing products and carefully read food product labels to avoid undesirable allergic reactions.

Culinary uses of sesame pastes

Sesame pastes are versatile in the kitchen and can be used to prepare various dishes.

The smooth texture of tahini makes it perfect for preparing sauces, dips, spreads, and glazes.
Coarse tahini can be used as an addition to salads, bread, and even as an ingredient in cakes and cookies, adding crunch and nutty notes.

Experiment with different recipesto discover the best way to use this ingredient.

Storage and shelf life of tahini

Tahini has an essentially unlimited shelf life. It should be stored in a dry and dark place. Proper storage of tahini is key to preserving its quality and freshness. After opening the jar, it is recommended to store tahini in the refrigerator to prevent oxidation and spoilage. It's also important to make sure the jar is tightly closed to prevent air exposure, which can accelerate oxidation.

Before use, it's worth mixing the tahini well, as the natural oils may float to the top. Evenly distributing the oils will help maintain the consistent texture and flavor of the product.

Cost

Tahini prices can vary depending on the brand, quality, and quantity of the product. Compare prices from different brands, but remember that quality often goes hand in hand with price.

Brand-name products may be more expensive than lower-end options, but this often corresponds to higher quality and better taste. Also, tahini with higher levels of natural ingredients, such as whole sesame seeds or organic products, may be slightly more expensive.

Also, make sure the product is manufactured and packaged in the region where the ingredients are sourced. This ensures high-quality ingredients and proper production standards.

Availability

All tahinis available for purchase in our store are in stock. We process orders immediately. Usually, products ordered by 12:00 PM are shipped the same day.

Other names for sesame pastes:

Arabic: طحينة (tahina)

Hebrew: טחינה (tahina)

Turkish: Tahin

Persian: طحینه (tahini)

Greek: Ταχίνι (tachini)

Russian: Тахини (takhini)