Tahini is a relatively rare product uncommon for most European cuisines. We probably know only that it may be added to sauces, like teriyaki sauce or soy sauce, however, this foodstuff is a truly multipurpose thing!
Can tahini go bad?
Let’s find this out!
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What Is This Product Made Of?
This is a paste-like foodstuff that takes its origin from the Middle East. It is traditionally produced from crushed sesame seeds and it’s rather thick, that is why, before serving, this product is diluted with water to make it more liquid.
In some countries, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper are often mixed in to enhance the taste. Well-known humus, by the way, also contains tahini!
What does tahini taste like, by the way?
Since it’s made of sesame, its taste reminds sesame pretty much, however, some say that tahini is more like nut butter only being stronger, and absolutely unsweetened.
In Arabic countries, this foodstuff comes as an ingredient for sweets, for instance, halva.
Of course, those who rarely consume this paste may wonder: do sesame seeds go bad? Could it somehow influence the durability of the paste?
Well, let’s take a closer look!
| Product | Pantry | Fridge |
|---|---|---|
| Past printed date | Past printed date | |
| Raw sesame seeds | Raw seeds are able to remain fresh for six months easily. | When refrigerated, they extend their durability to twelve months. The same refers to exposing sesame to frost. |
| Roasted seeds | If we roast the seeds, they can be safely stored for three years under the proper conditions. | The same term is easily reached when refrigerating or freezing them, too. |
But will the state of the basic ingredient affect the product itself?
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Tahini Storage Tips And Nuances
Since this paste is quite rarely found in our kitchens, we may assume that few people are knowledgeable about its storage specifics.
To begin with, we can say that tahini expiration hangs upon how we keep it and what conditions we provide, just like for any other foodstuff actually.
But what about how to store tahini? Are there any special tricks one needs to know?
- For storage, find a cool and dark place away from heat or direct sunlight.
- Keep the tank of paste tightly screwed to prevent oxidation
- Once the product was opened, decide yourself where to store it. Does tahini need to be refrigerated, consumers wonder?
Though it is indeed recommended to keep it chilled, it’s not a rare thing for people to leave it in a cupboard.
You decide but note that chilling will extend its lifespan and keep the quality longer. That is why we would offer you to refrigerate tahini after opening.
Sounds like nothing complicated at all but such simple rules may help the foodstuff remain at its full quality much longer!
Related: Does Canola Oil Go Bad?
Can You Freeze Tahini?
The dedicated tahini fans would probably ask whether it is OK to toss the product to the freezing camera.
Fortunately, guys, this product is freezing-friendly! So if there’s a half-empty jar of sesame paste left, don’t hesitate to send it directly to the coldest part of your fridge! Like that, the foodstuff will preserve its best qualities longer.
How long can you keep tahini frozen?
Hmm, if storing tahini this way, we would say it will last for several months more.
For freezing, wrap the mouth of the tank with the plastic wrap and screw the lid tightly. Then cover the tank with one more layer.
Tahini Shelf Life. How Long Does Tahini Last?
Now it’s time to talk about the most thrilling question of all times. How long is tahini good for?
Don’t laugh, for the adepts of Eastern cuisine, it is indeed a crucial point of concern!
For sure, the term of its duration hangs upon where we keep it. To make the process easier, just follow the answers to the most common questions that folks usually ask!
- How long does tahini last in the fridge?
An opened tank will remain eatable for half a year.
- How long does tahini last after opening?
Once unsealed, the product must be used within sixty days. In case it’s refrigerated, its lifespan will be extended.
- How long does tahini last unopened?
Feel free to keep the tightly screwed paste in a pantry for nearly half a year after its expiry date passed.
As you can see, no tricks and complications! This foodstuff is indeed a super simple to have at home even if you’re not a pro in all those cooking-storing stuff!
Does Tahini Expire?
Storing is great but sooner or later a question comes up: does tahini spoil?
And here we must, unfortunately, disappoint you our friends since improper tahini storage does lead to this wonderful product spoilage!
If we are careless and leave our beloved sesame paste close to the stove or oven, let the sun shining over it freely or we do other insane things like this, be sure that the poor product won’t survive.
And right for you!
Eager to enjoy this yummy longer? Keep it properly, that’s the thing!
How to Tell If Tahini Is Bad?
What if the tragedy happened and we suspect our yummy is bad?
Check the paste for the symptoms of spoilage instantly to prevent consuming the off foodstuff since we all know how it may end (not good let us give you a hint).
Here it must be mentioned that this foodstuff is very unlikely to become spoiled in fact since its content prevents any mold or fungi from growing.
But of course, upon noticing anything that reminds the sign of tahini expiration, throw the foodstuff to the garbage bin.
In addition, consider that the product may go rancid but that won’t harm your health.
Where To Use Tahini In Culinary?
Since tahini is quite rarely used in European cuisines, not everyone is informed about how to use this paste.
Nevertheless, there is plenty of ways we can consume it!
- The paste fits roasted veggies perfectly as a dressing
- It is an irreplaceable part of hummus
- Mix it to the coleslaw or salads
- Try tahini with oven-baked salmon
- Don’t be afraid to add it to the cookies dough!
- Hot savory dishes will also win from adding tahini to them
Try and experiment since this all-purpose product fits almost any dish!
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