Substitute for Tahini
A paste made from ground sesame seeds. Used in hummus, dressings, and Middle Eastern cooking.
The Best Substitute
The Professor's top pick for replacing tahini is Peanut Butter (unsweetened) at a ratio of 1 tablespoon peanut butter = 1 tablespoon tahini. This works well for dressings, sauces, noodle dishes, smoothies. There are 2 total substitutes listed below, each suited for different situations. Scroll down for complete details on every option, including what to use each one for and what to avoid.
Best Substitutes
Peanut Butter (unsweetened)
Flavor impact: Similar consistency and richness. Different flavor but both are nutty and creamy.
Dairy-freeSunflower Seed Butter
Flavor impact: Closest flavor match. Slightly earthy. Nut-free alternative.
Dairy-free
Sunflower seed butter is the closest in flavor and is nut-free. Peanut butter is the most accessible swap. For homemade hummus specifically, the tahini flavor is distinctive and hard to replicate perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet until golden, then blend with a tablespoon of neutral oil until smooth. Homemade tahini is fresher and more flavorful than most store-bought.
The Bottom Line
If you are out of tahini, the best all-around substitute is peanut butter (unsweetened). Pay attention to the ratio, since substitutes rarely work at exactly 1:1. Consider what role tahini plays in your recipe; whether it provides flavor, texture, acidity, or structure; and choose the substitute that best fills that specific role. When in doubt, start with less and adjust to taste.
Source: Culinary reference | Last verified: March 19, 2026 | Our methodology