Tahini Yoghurt Sauce

This is my middle-eastern inspired tahini yogurt sauce. It’s vegan (but doesn’t need to be with a simple change of yogurt) and is amazing as a topping with my fried aubergine appetiser – give the two a go and let me know what you think!

While this sauce is an AMAZING topper for my Fried Aubergine dish, it can also be used in so many ways. From serving with pitta, hummus and falafel, to dipping Crudités, there are lots of ways you can use it. So get creative and explore the different ways you can use it!

Dairy Free Tahini Yogurt Sauce

This tahini yogurt sauce is 100% dairy free and vegan, but it can definitely be made non-vegan by using animal-based yogurts etc. That’s absolutely your call and would be a straight swap in terms of quantities.

How to Make Tahini Yogurt Sauce

• Vegan Greek Yogurt
  
  • Texture and Creaminess: Greek yogurt adds a creamy and thick texture to the sauce, making it rich and satisfying.
  • Tanginess: It contributes a slight tangy flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce.
  • Protein: If the vegan Greek yogurt is fortified, it can contribute protein to the sauce, making it a more nutritionally balanced condiment.
    
• Tahini
  
  • Richness and Creaminess: Tahini, made from sesame seeds, adds a rich and creamy texture to the sauce.
  • Nutty Flavor: It brings a distinct nutty flavor to the dish, complementing the tanginess of the yogurt.
  • Nutritional Value: Tahini is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and various essential nutrients, enhancing the nutritional profile of the sauce.
    
• Garlic
  
  • Aroma and Flavor: Garlic adds a strong, aromatic flavor to the sauce, contributing depth and complexity.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties that may support overall well-being.
    
• Lemon Juice
  
  • Acidity: Lemon juice adds acidity, balancing the richness of the yogurt and tahini, and providing a bright, refreshing taste.
  • Freshness: It contributes a fresh and zesty element to the sauce, enhancing its overall appeal.
  • Vitamin C: Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C, providing a boost of this essential nutrient.
    
• Salt
  
  • Enhanced Flavor: Salt enhances the overall flavor profile by balancing sweetness, acidity, and richness.
  • Seasoning: It helps bring out the natural flavors of the other ingredients in the sauce.

What is the Difference Between Tahini and Tzatziki?

Tahini and Tzatziki are both very popular Mediterranean and middle eastern sauces, but they have distinct ingredients and flavors. Here’s a brief comparison of the two:

Ingredients:

Tahini: Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It has a creamy and nutty flavor, and it’s commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines.

Tzatziki: Tzatziki is a Greek sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and various herbs such as dill or mint. It has a fresh and tangy flavor with a hint of garlic.

Base:

Tahini: The base of tahini is sesame seeds, and it is typically a thick and rich paste.

Tzatziki: The base of tzatziki is yogurt, which gives it a creamy and smooth texture.

Flavor Profile:

Tahini: Tahini has a pronounced nutty and earthy flavor with a creamy texture. It adds richness and depth to dishes.

Tzatziki: Tzatziki has a refreshing and tangy flavor due to the yogurt and lemon juice, complemented by the crispness of cucumber and the aromatic notes of garlic and herbs.

Usage:

Tahini: Tahini is often used as a sauce or dip on its own, or as an ingredient in various dishes like hummus, baba ganoush, or dressings.

Tzatziki: Tzatziki is commonly used as a condiment or sauce in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. It pairs well with grilled meats, gyros, falafel, or can be used as a dip for veggies or pita.

Cultural Origin:

Tahini: It is a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, widely used in dishes from regions such as Lebanon, Israel, and Turkey.

Tzatziki: Tzatziki has Greek origins and is a traditional accompaniment to many Greek dishes.