The Role of Tahini in Lebanese Cuisine: From Dinners to Desserts
Tahini, a versatile paste made from ground sesame seeds, is an integral part of Lebanese cuisine. Though it's often associated with dips, its influence extends far beyond mezze platters. In Lebanese cooking, tahini finds its way into both savoury dishes and delightful desserts, adding a rich, nutty flavour that enhances any meal. Whether you're enjoying a hearty dinner or indulging in a sweet treat, tahini's unique taste and texture bring a comforting depth to each dish.
Tahini in Savoury Dinners
Tahini plays a starring role in several traditional Lebanese dinners. It’s often used as a creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, vegetables, and even seafood. This sauce is typically drizzled over dishes like Beef Shawarma or Falafel, adding a tangy, rich element that complements the spices in the meat or vegetables.
Another dinner-time favourite is Samke Harra, a spicy fish dish from Tripoli, where tahini sauce is poured over baked fish. The result is a delectable balance of flavours that showcases tahini’s ability to add complexity to a meal without overpowering the other ingredients.
Tahini in Sweet Lebanese Desserts
Beyond dinner, tahini also shines in the world of Lebanese desserts. Its creamy texture and nutty flavour make it a perfect ingredient for creating sweets that are both indulgent and satisfying. Halva, one of the most well-known Lebanese desserts, is made from tahini and sugar, creating a dense, sweet treat that crumbles in your mouth.
Another beloved dessert is Tahini Cookies (Barazek), where tahini is mixed with flour, sugar, and a touch of vanilla to create a cookie that’s crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. The addition of sesame seeds on top enhances the sesame flavour, making these cookies a delightful snack with a cup of Lebanese coffee.
Finally, Tahini and Date Cake is a unique dessert where tahini is used in the cake batter and as a topping, giving the cake a moist, rich texture and a subtly sweet, nutty flavour that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of dates.
The Versatility of Tahini
The beauty of tahini lies in its versatility. It seamlessly transitions from savoury to sweet, enhancing the flavours of any dish it touches. Whether you're enjoying a traditional Lebanese dinner or treating yourself to a sweet dessert, tahini brings a unique richness that elevates the entire experience.
At Kohkoz, we love experimenting with tahini in our recipes, and we encourage you to do the same. Its role in Lebanese cuisine is a testament to its enduring appeal and its ability to bring people together through the love of good food. If you'd like to shop our Tarator (Tahini Sauce), which is perfect for savoury dishes click here.
