Delicious Ways to Use Tahini

It may be an ancient food, but tahini—also known as sesame paste—is enjoying a major renaissance right now. Fans of Middle Eastern food may know it best as the stuff they drizzle on falafel. But thanks to chefs like Yotam Ottolenghi and Einat Admony (not to mention countless food writers and bloggers) making creative use of tahini, it's clear that the possibilities are virtually endless.

How to Cook With Tahini: When baking, tahini is typically used in the same way as peanut butter, adding a mildly nutty flavor. It can easily be whisked into sauces and dressings, but keep in mind that adding acid, such as lemon juice, will cause tahini to thicken rapidly. Adding a little warm water will thin it to the proper consistency.

Tahini's nuttiness and fat content make it a perfect ingredient in sweets, including cheesecake. Simple, but decadent, this tahini cheesecake has a light sesame flavor. Top with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, along with sprinkle of crushed halvah candy, a treat also make with sesame paste.