Looking to add smoky flavor and creamy texture to your meals? This Chipotle Tahini Sauce is the perfect topping for everything from burrito bowls to roasted cauliflower. With its bold, spicy kick and creamy dressing consistency, it’s a flavor-packed addition to your Mexican cuisine favorites.
Looking for other delicious dips and dressing check out my full collection here!
What Is Chipotle Tahini Sauce?
Chipotle Tahini Sauce combines the nutty richness of ground sesame seeds (tahini) with the smoky heat of chipotle chile in adobo sauce. The result? A creamy chipotle sauce with just the right amount of zing for your favorite dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Takes 5 minutes to make.
- Uses simple ingredients found in most grocery stores.
- Vegan, gluten-free, and versatile.
- A good way to elevate everyday meals like cauliflower tacos and vegan Mexican quinoa bowls.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Base Ingredients
- Cup tahini: The creamy base made from ground sesame seeds.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: Adds smoky flavor and spice.
- Minced garlic or garlic powder: For depth.
- Lime juice: Brightens the sauce. Lemon juice works as a substitute.
- Maple syrup: Balances the heat. Swap with agave or honey (if not vegan).
- Chili powder: Enhances the smoky flavor.
- Salt and pepper: A pinch of salt ties it all together.
- Water: Thins the sauce to your desired consistency.
Substitutions and Adjustments
- Replace tahini with almond butter or peanut butter for a nutty twist.
- Add a dash of soy sauce for umami.
- Adjust the spice level by using less chipotle or adding more maple syrup.
Helpful Tools for Making Chipotle Tahini Sauce
- Food processor or small blender: Essential for blending into a smooth sauce.
- Measuring spoons and cup: Ensures accurate proportions.
- Large bowl: For assembling ingredients.
- Spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of the blender.
How to Make This Easy Chipotle Tahini Sauce
- Blend Ingredients: Combine tahini, chipotle peppers, garlic, lime juice, maple syrup, chili powder, and a tablespoon of water in a food processor.
- Adjust Spice Level: Start with half a chipotle pepper if you prefer less heat. Taste and add more if desired.
- Thin Consistency: Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your preferred creamy texture.
- Season: Mix in salt and pepper to taste.
- Enjoy: Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Tips & Tricks
- Balance the flavors: Add more lime juice or maple syrup to balance the heat.
- Make ahead: This creamy dressing gets even better after chilling for a few hours.
- Avoid food waste: Use extra chipotle peppers for other recipes like burrito bowls or marinades.
Ways to Use Chipotle Tahini Sauce
- Drizzle over roasted vegetables like brussels sprouts or roasted cauliflower.
- Use as a sandwich spread or creamy salad dressing.
- Pair with black beans, pickled onions, or plant-based crumbles in tacos.
- A perfect dip for cauliflower pieces or brussels sprouts.
Nutritional Benefits of Chipotle Tahini Sauce
- Packed with healthy fats from tahini.
- High in protein and calcium.
- Low in carbs, making it ideal for many diets.
How to Store the Sauce
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Shake or stir before use if it separates.
How Long Does It Last?
In the refrigerator, it lasts 7-10 days. If frozen, use within 1-2 months for the best quality.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Too thick? Add additional water or lime juice.
- Too spicy? Blend in more tahini or maple syrup.
- Too bland? Add a dash of apple cider vinegar or soy sauce.
Variations to Try Next Time
- Add a splash of orange juice for a citrus twist.
- Swap tahini with vegan mayo for a lighter texture.
- Add a teaspoon of tsp garlic powder for an extra garlic punch.
FAQs
Yes, store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and stir well before use.
Absolutely! It’s naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free ingredients.
Of course! Use half a chipotle pepper or add more tahini to tone down the heat.
Try almond butter or peanut butter for a nutty alternative.
Add enough water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Easy Chipotle Tahini Sauce
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup tahini
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo adjust to your spice preference
- 1 small clove minced garlic or a dash or garlic powder
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp chili powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- water to thin the consistency
Instructions
- Blend together the tahini, chipotle peppers, garlic, lime juice, maple syrup, chili powder and a tablespoon or 2 of water.
- Start with ½ a chipotle pepper if you are sensitive to spice. Taste, and add more if needed.
- Add more water as needed 1 tbsp at a time and blend until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion:
This Spicy Chipotle Tahini Sauce is the ultimate combination of creamy texture and bold flavor. Whether you’re using it as a topping for burrito bowls, a dressing for vegan Mexican quinoa bowls, or a dip for roasted veggies, this sauce will elevate any meal with its smoky flavor and the perfect amount of spice.
This chipotle dairy free sauce was perfect!! Thanks Essy just what my taco salad recipe needed 🙂
So happy you found my chipotle recipe helpful! Thanks so much for trying it out 😊