Tehina

Tehina Recipe from Israel: Garlic, Hot Pepper, Lemons & Olive Oil

Region / culture: Israel | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tehina, also known as tahini, is a popular Middle Eastern condiment made from ground sesame seeds. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from dips to salad dressings to marinades.

History

Tehina has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in ancient Persia and spread throughout the region, becoming a beloved ingredient in dishes such as hummus, falafel, and baba ganoush.

Ingredients

1 cup of pure tahini (sesame paste)
2 crushed garlic cloves
0.5 cup of water
a dash of hot pepper (red)
1 tsp of salt
0.5 bunch of chopped parsley
juice from 2 lemons
pickles
3 tbsp of olive oil

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine tahini, garlic, water, pepper, salt, and lemon juice. Mix until a smooth paste is formed.
If the tahini is too thick, add more water.
Spread the tahini mixture thinly on a small plate. Drizzle with a few drops of olive oil and garnish with pickles.
Sprinkle the dip with parsley or mix the parsley into the dip before serving.

Variations

Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist on traditional tehina. You can also mix in herbs such as cilantro or mint for a fresh and vibrant flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making tehina, be sure to use high-quality sesame paste for the best flavor. Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired consistency, whether you prefer a thicker dip or a thinner sauce. Adding a dash of hot pepper can give the tehina a spicy kick, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve tehina as a dip with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or falafel. It can also be used as a sauce for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the sesame seeds before grinding them into a paste can enhance the nutty flavor of tehina. You can also experiment with different ratios of tahini to water to achieve your desired consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have pure sesame paste on hand, you can make your own by grinding sesame seeds in a food processor until smooth. You can also substitute lemon juice with vinegar for a tangy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Tehina can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a stir before serving to recombine any separated ingredients.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish tehina with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and a few whole sesame seeds for an elegant presentation. Serve it in a decorative bowl with a side of fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Tehina pairs well with dishes such as falafel, grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and salads. It also complements flavors such as garlic, lemon, and cumin.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover tehina in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm the dip in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of tehina contains approximately 100 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie condiment.

Carbohydrates

Tehina is low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Fats

Sesame seeds are rich in healthy fats, including omega-6 fatty acids. Tehina is a good source of these fats, which can help support heart health and reduce inflammation in the body.

Proteins

While tehina is not a significant source of protein, sesame seeds do contain some protein, making this condiment a good addition to a balanced diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Sesame seeds are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients are important for bone health, energy production, and muscle function.

Alergens

Tehina contains sesame seeds, which are a common allergen. Individuals with sesame allergies should avoid consuming this condiment.

Summary

Tehina is a nutritious condiment that is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a versatile and flavorful addition to a variety of dishes.

Summary

Tehina is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes. With its rich nutty flavor and creamy texture, it is a beloved ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my aunt prepare a feast for a family gathering. As I was cleaning up the kitchen, I stumbled upon an old, tattered cookbook that had been hiding in the back of the cupboard. Curious, I flipped through its pages and came across a recipe for Tehina.

I had never heard of Tehina before, but the ingredients intrigued me - sesame paste, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It sounded simple enough, but I could tell from the list of ingredients that it would be bursting with flavor. I decided then and there that I had to give it a try.

I asked my aunt about the recipe, but she had never made it before. Undeterred, I set out to find someone who could teach me how to make Tehina. Over the next few weeks, I asked all of my friends and relatives if they knew of anyone who could help me, but no one had even heard of it.

Just when I was starting to lose hope, I ran into an old friend at the market who told me that her grandmother used to make the best Tehina in town. She offered to introduce me to her, and I eagerly accepted.

The next day, I found myself in the cozy kitchen of my friend's grandmother, who welcomed me with open arms. She was a tiny, elderly woman with a twinkle in her eye, and she wasted no time in getting started on the Tehina.

As she guided me through the recipe, I watched in awe as she effortlessly mixed the sesame paste with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. She explained that the key to a good Tehina was to use the freshest ingredients and to mix everything by hand, slowly adding the olive oil until the mixture reached the perfect consistency.

I followed her instructions carefully, taking in every word she said. As the aroma of garlic and sesame filled the air, I felt a sense of satisfaction wash over me. I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

After we finished making the Tehina, my friend's grandmother scooped some into a small bowl and handed me a piece of warm pita bread. I took a bite and closed my eyes as the flavors danced on my tongue. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before - creamy, tangy, and oh so delicious.

From that day on, I was hooked. I made Tehina every chance I got, experimenting with different variations and adding my own twist to the recipe. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about how amazing it was.

Over the years, I have made Tehina countless times, each batch better than the last. It has become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that brings me joy and comfort with every bite.

I am grateful to my friend's grandmother for introducing me to the magic of Tehina. Her recipe has become a treasured part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the power of good food and the joy of sharing it with others.

As I sit here, writing this story, I can't help but smile. The journey to discovering the recipe for Tehina was a delicious adventure, one that I will cherish forever. And now, I pass it on to you, my dear grandchild. May you savor every bite and create your own culinary memories along the way. Bon appétit!