Serves: N/A (its a condiment)
Taste: 5/5
Preparation: 5/5
Health: 5/5
Tahina is incredibly versatile and can be used as a sauce or dip. Its tangy and savory profile complements a wide range of dishes – both savoury (e.g., salad, pizza) and sweet (e.g., cake, ice cream). The acidity from the lemon juice perfectly balances the bitterness of the tahina, creating a harmonious medley of flavor. This recipe is one of the few condiments I always have in-stock, and the one I get the most surprise from when I share it with tahina-naive friends.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup tahina (sesame paste)
- Juice of 1-2 lemons
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt
- A sprinkle of MSG (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)
- Ice water (preferred) or cold tap water
Method
- In a bowl, combine the tahina, lemon juice, salt, MSG (if using), and cumin (if using).
- Using a fork, slowly mix in ice water.
- Continue to add water gradually, mixing continuously. The mixture will initially thin out and then thicken as the tahina emulsifies.
- Adjust the water quantity to achieve a creamy consistency, similar to thick mayonnaise.
- Transfer the tahina to a squeeze bottle or airtight container for storage.
Note: The sauce will thicken further upon refrigeration.
