5 Reasons Why You Should Eat Tahini

WHAT IS TAHINI?

Tahini is a rich, creamy paste made from toasted ground sesame seeds. It’s a versatile condiment that can be enjoyed on its own, whisked into salad dressings, added to hummus or baba ghanoush or even cooked into desserts.

This delicious spread has deep roots in Middle Eastern cuisine and it’s cherished in Arab culture for its dual role as both food and medicine, providing nourishment to the body and enhancing overall wellbeing.

WHAT TYPES OF TAHINI ARE THERE?

At The Source Bulk Foods, we stock three types of tahini: hulled, unhulled and unhulled black. All three are made from whole sesame seeds.

Organic Hulled Tahini, with the outer hull removed, is light in colour and has a mild, smooth flavour. It’s creamy in texture but slightly lower in nutrients compared to other types.

Organic Unhulled Tahini, made from whole sesame seeds, including the hull, is darker and has a more robust, slightly bitter taste. Due to the retained husk, it’s thicker and packed with more minerals and fibre.

Organic Unhulled Black Tahini, made from whole black sesame seeds, is the darkest and most robust in flavour, with a thick texture. It’s particularly rich in antioxidants and nutrients, making it a powerhouse ingredient.

Each type offers unique benefits and uses, catering to different culinary needs and preferences.

WHY IS TAHINI GOOD FOR ME?

1. Rich in Zinc: It is high in zinc, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin.
2. Nutrient-Dense: It provides a wealth of nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, lecithin, potassium, and iron.
3. Boosts Energy and Brain Function: Packed with B vitamins, it helps boost energy levels and brain function.
4. Healthy Fats and Protein: An excellent source of unsaturated fats and protein.
5. Delicious Flavor: Beyond its health benefits, it tastes terrific!

Pro Tip: The natural oils in tahini will separate over time. This is a good sign, indicating that no additives or chemicals have been used to prevent separation.

HOW CAN I USE TAHINI?

There are countless ways to enjoy tahini, one of our favorites being these delightful Tahini, Coconut, and Almond Cookies.

Tahini, Coconut and Almond Cookies

Makes: 12-14 cookies

• 50g Australian natural almond meal
• 40g organic fine coconut
• 60mL organic hulled tahini
• 3 tbsp coconut milk
• 3 tbsp organic maple syrup or honey
• 35g Australian insecticide free raw almonds, roughly chopped, plus extra for topping
• 100g organic dark chocolate buttons, melted

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with baking paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the almond meal and coconut.
3. In a smaller bowl, combine tahini, coconut milk and maple syrup until well combined.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry and combine. Gently stir through almond pieces.
5. Spoon the mixture onto the baking tray. Flatten with the back of a fork or spoon.
6. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before drizzling with melted chocolate. Sprinkle with extra chopped almonds.

What’s your favourite way to use tahini? Tag us in your favourite recipes on Instagram!