What Is Tahini? Ingredients, Nutrition, Benefits, and Downsides

What Is Tahini? Ingredients, Nutrition, Benefits, and Downsides

Tahini is a common ingredient in popular foods around the globe, including hummus, halva, and baba ghanoush.

Favored for its smooth texture and rich taste, it can be used as a dip, spread, salad dressing, or condiment.

It also boasts a long list of nutrients and several health benefits, making it a must-have for any kitchen pantry.

This article reviews the nutrition, benefits, uses, and downsides of tahini.Share on Pinterest

What is tahini?

Tahini is a paste made from sesame seeds. It’s versatile, highly nutritious, and associated with numerous potential health benefits.

Tahini nutrition

Tahini is relatively low in calories but high in fiber, protein, and an assortment of important vitamins and minerals.

One tablespoon (15 grams) of tahini contains the following nutrients:

Calories: 89

Protein: 3 grams

Carbs: 3 grams

Fat: 8 grams

Fiber: 2 grams

Copper: 27% of the Daily Value (DV)

Selenium: 9% of the DV

Phosphorus: 9% of the DV

Iron: 7% of the DV

Zinc: 6% of the DV

Calcium: 5% of the DV

Tahini is rich in many nutrients, including protein, fiber, copper, selenium, and phosphorus.

Benefits of tahini

Due to its impressive nutrient profile, tahini has been linked to a number of health benefits.

Tahini and its components may help improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and prevent the growth of certain types of cancer cells.

How to add tahini to your diet

Tahini can be used as a spread, dip, or salad dressing. It can also be mixed into baked goods to add a unique nutty flavor.

Potential downsides

Tahini is rich in omega-6 fatty acids and could cause an adverse reaction in those who are allergic to sesame seeds.

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