What is the Difference Between Tahini and Sesame Paste

The main difference between tahini and sesame paste is that tahini uses raw sesame seeds or lightly toasted seeds, whereas sesame paste uses toasted sesame seeds.

Tahini and sesame paste are two condiments we make using sesame seeds. Tahini is a Middle Eastern dish, and we can even describe it as a type of sesame paste. Sesame paste, on the other hand, is mainly popular in Chinese cuisine.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Tahini 
      – Definition, Features
2. What is Sesame Paste
      – Definition, Features
3. Difference Between Tahini and Sesame Paste
      – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Tahini, Sesame Paste

Difference Between Tahini and Sesame Paste - Comparison Summary

What is Tahini

Tahini is a spread made from ground sesame seeds. It is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern food, used in dishes such as hummus and baba ghanoush. It is also used in sauces for falafel sandwiches and can be made into a sauce with lemon, garlic, and tahini to go with fish, vegetables, or shawarma. Tahini is also common in Mediterranean, North African, and South Caucus cooking.

Compare Tahini and Sesame Paste - What's the difference?

Tahini has just three key ingredients: sesame seeds, oil, and sometimes salt. The seeds are ground and mixed with oil to make a smooth and creamy spread. Tahini has a nutty, and earthy flavor, but this nutty taste is less intense than the taste of sesame paste. Some people also toast the seeds lightly before mixing them with the oil. 

What is Sesame Paste

Sesame paste is a dish with Chinese origin. It is made from toasted white sesame seeds and is widely used in various dishes such as noodles, salads, buns, and hot pot dipping sauces. Its nutty, rich flavor is particularly popular in Sichuan cuisine. This paste is usually available in jars in Chinese or Asian supermarkets. The paste is typically in a solid form with oil on top, and you have to stir it thoroughly before use.

Tahini vs Sesame Paste

Sesame paste is also easy to make at home. It only requires white sesame seeds, vegetable oil, an oven, and a food processor. First, preheat the oven to 350°F and spread the sesame seeds on a baking sheet. Bake the seeds until they are golden brown, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Let the seeds cool completely. Next, transfer the sesame seeds to a food processor and grind them into a fine powder. Slowly add in the vegetable oil while continuing to grind the mixture until it becomes a smooth paste. The consistency of the paste should be thick but not too dense. If necessary, you can add more oil to achieve the desired consistency. You have to store the sesame paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will keep for up to a month.

Difference Between Tahini and Sesame Paste

Definition

Sesame paste is a Chinese dish made from toasted white sesame seeds, while tahini is a spread made from ground sesame seeds.

Sesame Seeds

Tahini uses raw sesame seeds or lightly toasted seeds, whereas sesame paste uses toasted sesame seeds.

Taste

Sesame paste tends to have a less bitter and overall warmer, nuttier taste than tahini.

Origins

While sesame paste mainly has Chinese origins, tahini has Middle Eastern origins.

Uses

Sesame paste is used with noodles, salads, buns, and hot pot dipping sauces, whereas tahini is used with food like hummus, baba ghanoush, shawarma, and falafel sandwiches.

Conclusion

The main difference between tahini and sesame paste is that tahini uses raw sesame seeds or lightly toasted seeds, whereas sesame paste uses toasted sesame seeds. This difference in sesame seeds also affects the taste, texture, and uses of these two condiments.

Reference:

1. Liv, Wan.“Chinese Sesame Paste.” The Spruce Eats.
2. “What is Tahini.” Food Network Essentials.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Sesame paste 芝麻酱” By kattebelletje (CC BY-NC 2.0) via Flickr
2. “Lemon tahini sauce” By jules (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr

About the Author: Hasa

Hasanthi is a seasoned content writer and editor with over 8 years of experience. Armed with a BA degree in English and a knack for digital marketing, she explores her passions for literature, history, culture, and food through her engaging and informative writing.

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