How to Store Tahini: The Correct Methods and Effective Tricks to Always Have Perfect Tahini!

Tahini, a creamy, rich paste made from ground sesame seeds, has long been a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. This versatile ingredient adds a nutty flavor to everything from hummus and sauces to desserts. Given its essential role in many recipes, you might find a jar of tahini lingering in your kitchen for some time. This raises the question: Should tahini be stored in the pantry, or does it belong in the refrigerator? Let's explore the best ways to keep your tahini fresh and ready to use.

What's Tahini, Exactly?

Tahini is made by grinding sesame seeds into a smooth paste, a technique that has been employed for thousands of years across various cultures. Its use in cooking is versatile, serving as a base for numerous traditional dishes. The quality of tahini is largely dependent on the sesame seed itself, which can vary from hulled to unhulled, each offering a slightly different flavor profile.

How to Store Unopened Tahini and How Long Does it Last?

When it comes to unopened tahini, the decision of where to store it depends largely on the packaging and the manufacturer's recommendations. Typically, unopened tahini can be safely stored in a cool, dry pantry. The key is to keep it away from heat and light, which can degrade its quality faster. Unopened tahini can last for up to six months in the pantry. However, if you live in a particularly warm climate, you might consider storing it in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life even further.

How Do You Store Tahini Once It's Been Opened, Instead?

Once opened, tahini's storage needs change slightly. Exposure to air can cause tahini to go rancid more quickly due to the natural oils in the sesame seeds. To preserve its freshness once opened, it is advisable to store tahini in the refrigerator. Make sure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent the paste from absorbing odors from other foods. When stored properly in the refrigerator, opened tahini can last for up to six months. Some separation of oil is natural; simply stir the tahini before use to reincorporate the oil.

How Do You Keep Tahini From Getting Hard and Going Bad?

To keep tahini from going bad and becoming hard, always use clean, dry utensils when scooping it out of the jar. This prevents contamination with food particles or bacteria that can accelerate spoilage. Tahini can harden when the oils naturally separate and settle at the bottom, especially if stored in colder conditions like a refrigerator. To prevent this, stir your tahini regularly to maintain its smooth consistency. If you're using tahini infrequently, consider transferring a portion to a smaller container for regular use, keeping the larger container sealed and stored. This approach not only minimizes the exposure of the entire batch to air and potential contaminants each time you use it but also makes it easier to stir and maintain the right texture. If the tahini does become too thick or hard, gently warm it up by placing the container in warm water for a few minutes and stir well; this can help restore its creamy texture.

How Can You Tell if Tahini Has Gone Bad?

Knowing how to tell if tahini has gone bad is key to enjoying it safely. Spoiled tahini may develop a rancid or sour smell, an off taste, or mold, especially if moisture has been introduced into the container. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the tahini to avoid consuming spoiled food.