
Toasted sesame seeds are the whole story here, ground down until they transform from a coarse, crumbly texture into a silky, pourable paste. A touch of neutral oil and a pinch of salt are all it takes to coax out that deep, nutty flavor and get the consistency just right for drizzling, whisking into dressings, or swirling into hummus. Making it yourself means total control over the roast level, so you can push it lightly golden for a milder taste or a shade darker for something richer and more toasted. It keeps well in the fridge for weeks, so one batch sets you up for plenty of meals down the line. This one's a natural fit for a vegan kitchen, and it's endlessly more vibrant than anything you'd pull off a store shelf.
Fig 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 →8 servings



Heat a large dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sesame seeds in a single layer and toast, stirring frequently, for 4–6 minutes, until they are lightly golden and fragrant — watch closely, as they can go from golden to bitter quickly. Remove from the heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
Transfer the cooled sesame seeds to a food processor and process for 1 minute, until the seeds break down into a coarse, crumbly paste.
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!
