Vegan Tahini
Snacks
Nutri-ScoreA

Vegan Tahini

Sesamum indicum

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Vegan Tahini provides 595 kcal, 17g of protein, 21g of carbohydrates, and 9g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Vegan tahini is a creamy paste made from ground sesame seeds, rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients. It serves as a versatile ingredient in various dishes, providing a nutty flavor and creamy texture.

Also known as:
Sesame PasteTahini
Scientific NameSesamum indicum
Region of OriginMiddle East

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories595 kcal
Water
0.5%
Fiber9g
Total91.0g
Protein
17g(19%)
Fats
53g(58%)
Carbohydrates
21g(23%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.8 mg (67%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)4 mg (25%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Folate97 µg (24%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin K: 0.1 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium975 mg (98%)
Iron9 mg (50%)
Magnesium351 mg (88%)
Phosphorus658 mg (94%)
Potassium468 mg (13%)
Zinc7.8 mg (71%)
Copper1.5 mg (167%)
Manganese2.5 mg (109%)
Selenium34 µg (62%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in healthy fats, particularly unsaturated fats, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
High in calcium and magnesium, contributing to bone health and muscle function.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High in calories and fats; moderation is advised for those monitoring caloric intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best used as a spread, in dressings, or as an ingredient in dips and sauces. Can be mixed with lemon juice, garlic, and water for a delicious dressing.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose tahini that is smooth and creamy, with a rich sesame flavor. Look for organic options without added sugars or preservatives.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dark place, and refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Nutrient-dense, Antioxidant-rich, Anti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines
Popular in vegan and vegetarian diets
Bioactive Compounds
Sesamin

A lignan that has antioxidant properties and may help lower cholesterol.

How to Consume
Spread, Dip, Dressing, Sauce
Did you know?

"Tahini has been used for thousands of years in Middle Eastern cuisine and is a staple in dishes like hummus and baba ghanoush."

Myths vs Realities

MythTahini is only for Middle Eastern dishes.
RealityTahini can be used in a variety of cuisines, including Asian and Western dishes.
MythTahini is unhealthy due to its fat content.
RealityTahini contains healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation.
MythAll tahini is the same.
RealityThere are different types of tahini, such as hulled and unhulled, which vary in taste and nutritional content.

Healthy Recipes

Creamy Tahini Avocado Toast

A nutritious twist on classic avocado toast, featuring a creamy tahini spread for added flavor and health benefits.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 2 tablespoons vegan tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado and mix in tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the avocado-tahini mixture on the toasted bread and sprinkle with chili flakes.

Tahini Lemon Chickpea Salad

A refreshing salad packed with protein and flavor, featuring a zesty tahini dressing that ties everything together.

Ingredients
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons vegan tahini
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. 3. Pour the tahini dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Spicy Tahini Roasted Cauliflower

A flavorful side dish featuring roasted cauliflower florets coated in a spicy tahini sauce, perfect for any meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 3 tablespoons vegan tahini
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix tahini, olive oil, smoked paprika, and salt to create a sauce.
  3. 3. Toss the cauliflower florets in the sauce and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden, garnishing with parsley before serving.

Tahini Banana Smoothie

A creamy and nutritious smoothie that combines the richness of tahini with the natural sweetness of bananas, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 ripe banana
  • 2 tablespoons vegan tahini
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Ice cubes
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine banana, tahini, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and ice cubes.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Tahini and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers filled with a nutritious quinoa and tahini mixture, making for a hearty and healthy main dish.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/4 cup vegan tahini
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, tahini, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the quinoa mixture and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes.

Tahini Chocolate Energy Bites

These no-bake energy bites are packed with nutrients and flavor, combining tahini with oats and chocolate for a perfect snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup vegan tahini
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix rolled oats, tahini, maple syrup, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
  2. 2. Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
  3. 3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before enjoying.

Creamy Tahini Dressing for Salads

A versatile and creamy tahini dressing that adds a delicious flavor to any salad, packed with healthy fats.

Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup vegan tahini
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. 2. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
  3. 3. Drizzle over your favorite salad and enjoy.

Tahini and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potatoes stuffed with a savory tahini and spinach filling, providing a hearty and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 large sweet potatoes
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 3 tablespoons vegan tahini
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake sweet potatoes for 45-60 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. In a skillet, sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted, then mix in tahini, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Slice open the baked sweet potatoes and fill them with the tahini-spinach mixture.

Tahini Chia Pudding

A delicious and healthy chia pudding made with tahini, offering a unique flavor and a boost of nutrients for breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 2 tablespoons vegan tahini
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • Fresh fruit for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix chia seeds, almond milk, tahini, and maple syrup until well combined.
  2. 2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until it thickens.
  3. 3. Serve topped with fresh fruit.

Tahini and Berry Parfait

A delightful parfait layered with tahini yogurt, fresh berries, and granola, perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup plant-based yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons vegan tahini
  • 1 cup mixed berries
  • 1/2 cup granola
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix plant-based yogurt with tahini and honey/agave until smooth.
  2. 2. In a glass, layer the tahini yogurt, mixed berries, and granola.
  3. 3. Repeat the layers and enjoy immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is tahini made from?

Tahini is made from ground sesame seeds, which can be hulled or unhulled.

Is tahini gluten-free?

Yes, tahini is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

How should tahini be stored?

Store tahini in a cool, dark place, and refrigerate after opening to extend its shelf life.

Can tahini be used in baking?

Yes, tahini can be used in baking to add moisture and a nutty flavor to cookies and cakes.

Is tahini high in protein?

Yes, tahini is a good source of plant-based protein, providing about 17 grams per 100 grams.

What are the health benefits of tahini?

Tahini is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, supporting heart health and bone strength.

Can tahini be eaten raw?

Yes, tahini can be consumed raw and is often used in dressings and dips.

Is tahini suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, tahini is entirely plant-based and is a popular ingredient in vegan cooking.