Out of Tahini, one case
Tahini substitute for hummus
7 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Peanut butter
Same amount as the tahini
The best tahini substitute for hummus is peanut butter (1:1 ratio) or sesame oil + sesame seeds (2 tbsp oil + ¼ cup seeds). These alternatives provide the creamy texture and nutty flavor essential for authentic hummus while being easily accessible.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- classic hummus
One casethe full tahini card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of tahini | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Peanut butterclassic hummus | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Sesame oil + sesame seedsauthentic hummus | 2 tbsp sesame oil + ¼ cup sesame seeds per ¼ cup tahiniWorks | Works |
| 3 | Almond buttermild hummus | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Sunflower seed butternut-free hummus | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Cashew buttercreamy hummus | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Greek yogurttangy hummus | ½ cup yogurt per ¼ cup tahiniTweak it | Tweak it |
| 7 | Olive oil + lemon juicesimple hummus | 2 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp lemon juice per ¼ cup tahiniYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Peanut butter
similar taste and texture
Peanut butter is the most accessible tahini substitute for hummus. It provides a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor that works well in most hummus recipes. Use natural peanut butter for best results.
- Best for
- classic hummus, quick hummus, when tahini is unavailable
Most accessible substitute with similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
Sesame oil + sesame seeds
similar taste and texture
Combine sesame oil with ground sesame seeds to create a homemade tahini substitute. Toast the seeds first for enhanced flavor. This provides the most authentic sesame taste and texture.
- Best for
- authentic hummus, when you want sesame flavor, traditional recipes
Closest to authentic tahini flavor. Toast seeds for enhanced flavor.
Almond butter
different taste, similar texture
Almond butter provides a mild, slightly sweet flavor that works well in hummus. It's creamier than tahini and adds a subtle nutty taste without overpowering the chickpea flavor.
- Best for
- mild hummus, when you want subtle nut flavor, sweet hummus variations
Mild, slightly sweet flavor that works well in hummus.
Sunflower seed butter
different taste, similar texture
Sunflower seed butter is an excellent nut-free alternative for hummus. It provides a similar creamy texture with a mild, slightly earthy flavor that complements chickpeas well.
- Best for
- nut-free hummus, allergy-friendly recipes, school-safe hummus
Nut-free alternative with similar texture and mild flavor.
Cashew butter
different taste, similar texture
Cashew butter is creamy and mild, making it an excellent tahini substitute for hummus. It provides smooth texture without overpowering the chickpea flavor, good for those who prefer milder hummus.
- Best for
- creamy hummus, mild-flavored hummus, when you want smooth texture
Creamy and mild, works well in hummus without overpowering flavor.
Greek yogurt
different taste, similar texture
Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy flavor to hummus. Use plain, unsweetened yogurt and adjust the amount based on desired consistency. This also adds protein to your hummus.
- Best for
- tangy hummus, when you want added protein, creamy texture
Adds creaminess and tang. Use plain, unsweetened yogurt.
Olive oil + lemon juice
different taste and texture
A simple combination of olive oil and lemon juice can substitute for tahini in hummus. This adds richness and acidity, though it won't provide the same nutty flavor or creamy texture.
- Best for
- simple hummus, when you want olive oil flavor, quick substitutions
Simple alternative that adds richness and acidity.
How it behaves in this recipe
Hummus requires tahini for its characteristic creamy texture and nutty flavor. The best substitutes maintain both the texture and flavor profile. Peanut butter is most accessible, while sesame oil + seeds provides the most authentic flavor. Nut-free options like sunflower seed butter ensure the hummus is safe for those with allergies.
Tips for substituting tahini
8 tips- For best results, use natural nut butters without added sugar or salt
- If using sesame oil + seeds, toast the seeds first for enhanced flavor
- Adjust the amount of substitute based on desired hummus consistency
- Add a bit more lemon juice when using nut butters to balance the flavor
- For authentic flavor, sesame oil + seeds is closest to real tahini
- Greek yogurt works well but may make hummus slightly tangier
- Sunflower seed butter is good for nut-free hummus that's safe for schools
- Cashew butter creates the creamiest texture but has the mildest flavor
Notes on tahini
- For completely tahini-free hummus, use extra olive oil and lemon juice
- Silken tofu can be blended in for added creaminess without nut flavor
- Avocado can add creaminess and healthy fats to hummus
- For a different twist, try using almond butter for a slightly sweeter hummus
- Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess while providing a tangy flavor
Questions
6 questionsWhat's the best substitute for tahini in hummus?
Peanut butter is the best substitute for tahini in hummus because it's easily accessible and provides similar creamy texture and nutty flavor. For authentic flavor, use sesame oil + sesame seeds. For nut-free options, sunflower seed butter works well.
Can I use peanut butter instead of tahini in hummus?
Yes, peanut butter works excellently as a tahini substitute in hummus. Use a 1:1 ratio and choose natural peanut butter without added sugar. It provides similar creamy texture and nutty flavor that complements chickpeas well.
How do I make tahini substitute for hummus?
To make a tahini substitute for hummus, combine 2 tablespoons sesame oil with ¼ cup ground sesame seeds. Toast the seeds first for enhanced flavor. This creates the closest substitute to authentic tahini with similar taste and texture.
What can I use instead of tahini in hummus if I'm allergic to nuts?
For nut-free hummus, use sunflower seed butter as the best tahini substitute. It provides similar creamy texture and mild flavor. Greek yogurt is another option that adds creaminess and tang, though it changes the flavor profile slightly.
Does hummus taste different without tahini?
Hummus without tahini will have a different flavor profile - it will be less nutty and creamy. However, good substitutes like peanut butter or sesame oil + seeds can provide similar texture and flavor. The chickpea flavor will be more prominent without tahini.
Can I use sesame oil instead of tahini in hummus?
Sesame oil alone won't provide the same texture as tahini, but combining it with ground sesame seeds creates an excellent substitute. Use 2 tablespoons sesame oil + ¼ cup ground sesame seeds to replace ¼ cup tahini.