Turkey Free Classic Tahini Sauce
Creamy, tangy, and deeply nutty, this tahini sauce comes together in minutes with nothing more than a bowl and a whisk. The base is pure sesame paste brightened by fresh lemon juice, a hit of raw garlic, and a whisper of cumin that gives it a subtle warmth without overpowering the other flavors. The real trick is adding ice water gradually — it transforms what starts as a seized, thick paste into a silky, pourable sauce that clings beautifully to whatever you drizzle it over. A finishing scatter of fresh flat-leaf parsley adds a pop of color and a clean herbal note that makes the whole thing feel restaurant-worthy. Every ingredient here is naturally plant-based and poultry-free, so there's zero need to scrutinize labels or worry about hidden meat-based additives sneaking in. Use it as a dip for roasted vegetables, a drizzle over grain bowls, or a sauce for falafel — honestly, once you have a jar of this in the fridge, you'll find yourself reaching for it constantly.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- ½ cup tahini
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
- 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
- ¼ tsp fine salt
- ¼ tsp ground cumin
- 3–5 tbsp ice water, plus more as needed
- 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and cumin until the mixture seizes into a thick, pale paste.
- 2
Add the ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition, until the sauce loosens to a smooth, pourable consistency that falls off the whisk in a slow, steady ribbon. Start with 3 tablespoons and add more for a thinner sauce.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!