Black sesame tahini is an amazing variation of tahini that uses unhulled black sesame seeds. All this does to the tahini is lend a slightly richer, nuttier flavor, along with a gorgeous (even if surprising) deep black color.
The strong and slightly bitter nuttiness of black sesame tahini can sometimes be a lot to handle, so I added in the addition of a dash of honey to contrast with the rich flavor from the black sesame. This makes a slightly more sweet, slightly more toast-friendly tahini that is amazing with figs and fresh bread.
But it’s also good on everything – apples, sandwiches, oatmeal, cereal. You can even add it to espresso + milk to make a black sesame latte! With a sweet black sesame tahini, it’s really all about how you want to use it.
Table of contents
What is the difference between black sesame tahini and normal tahini?
The main difference between tahini you usually see and black sesame tahini is that normal tahini is made from white sesame seeds, and black tahini is obviously made from black sesame seeds. The difference between these two seeds is white sesame seeds are usually sold with their tan, brownish hulls removed, revealing the off-white embryo within, while black sesame often have their hulls still intact.
This makes the black sesame seeds slightly harder, and more distinct in a toasted, nutty flavor. It makes a completely different product, but it’s fun to play around with food to learn which one you prefer.
Ingredients for this sweet black sesame tahini
- 1 cup black sesame seeds
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 3 tbsp avocado oil, plus more as needed
- 2 tbsp honey
How to make black sesame tahini
- Put a pan on medium heat and lightly toast the sesame seeds for 1-2 minutes. They should darken in color and get a light, nutty flavor.
- Add the sesame seeds and salt to a food processor. Process for about 2-3 minutes or until the seeds have formed a fine powder.
- Continue to run the food processor and slowly drizzle in the avocado oil. Run the food processor for another 3-5 minutes (a long time!) or until the seeds form a thick, runny, deep black paste.
- Once you reach your desired consistency, stir in the honey.
- Put in a jar or air-tight container and store in a cool, dry place. Use as needed!
Looking for other dips, spreads and toppings?
I have a whole category for it, but if you are looking for my top favorites, here are a few!
And that’s it for this black sesame tahini!
If you make it, please tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see! It’s my favorite thing to scroll through stories and see what you all are making.
And of course feel free to leave any questions, comments or reviews! This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you <3
Sweet Black Sesame Tahini
Ingredients
- 1 cup black sesame seeds
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 3 tbsp avocado oil plus more as needed
- 2 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Put a pan on medium heat and lightly toast the sesame seeds for 1-2 minutes. They should darken in color and get a light, nutty flavor.
- Add the sesame seeds and salt to a food processor. Process for about 2-3 minutes or until the seeds have formed a fine powder.
- Continue to run the food processor and slowly drizzle in the avocado oil. Run the food processor for another 3-5 minutes (a long time!) or until the seeds form a thick, runny, deep black paste.
- Once you reach your desired consistency, stir in the honey.
- Put in a jar or air-tight container and store in a cool, dry place. Use as needed!
