Homemade tahini

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shelled sesame seeds (see note)
• 3 tbsp + 1.5 tsp vegetable oil + more as needed

Preparation:

1. Place the sesame seeds in a food processor and pulse on high speed until crumbly, about 1 minute.
2. Add the vegetable oil and beat on high speed, stopping every minute or so to scrape down the sides of the bowl, until the paste is completely smooth, 5-8 minutes. You may need to add another tablespoon of oil to achieve the desired consistency. The tahini paste should be smooth and pourable. Store in a clean jar in the refrigerator for about a month and stir well before using..
   
   
   Note
   
   It's important to use shelled sesame seeds in this recipe. Tahini made with unshelled seeds will be uneven and slightly bitter. You can use either toasted or raw sesame seeds. Toasted sesame seeds will give the paste a nuttier flavor.