Tahini Sauce
Tahini sauce, a beloved component in Middle Eastern cuisine, unveils a simple yet essential recipe that captures the rich flavors of the region. Crafted from tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, this sauce forms a velvety base. It is then enriched with garlic, lemon juice, and a subtle infusion of olive oil. The historical roots of tahini sauce stretch across the Mediterranean and the Middle East, with its origins rooted in ancient cultures like those of Greece and the Levant. The technique of blending these ingredients requires precision to achieve the ideal balance between the nutty notes of sesame, the citrusy zing of lemon, and the aromatic undertones of garlic. This versatile sauce, employed as a dip, dressing, or accompaniment, showcases the artistry of transforming a handful of ingredients into a quintessential element of Middle Eastern gastronomy.
Tahini sauce has stood the test of time, embodying the culinary traditions of the Middle East. Its prominence is observed in dishes such as falafel, shawarma, and grilled meats, where its creamy texture and nuanced flavor enhance the overall dining experience. The preparation technique involves whisking or blending the ingredients to ensure a smooth and homogenous texture. This recipe exemplifies the fundamental Middle Eastern philosophy of elevating humble ingredients through thoughtful combinations, resulting in a sauce that is not only a culinary staple but also a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage.
Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time:
Total Time: 20 min
Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients
- ¼ cup tahini
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, crushed
- 3 Tbsp. cold water (more if needed)
- ¼ tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. olive oil
Instructions
- 1.Add crushed garlic to lemon juice and let steep for 10 minutes.
- 2.Strain garlic from lemon juice and combine in a bowl with the tahini, cold water, and salt.
- 3.Whisk together ingredients until blended smooth.
- 4.Add olive oil to mellow the flavor, more water to smooth, or salt for taste.