Three Variations of Orange Tahini-Based Sauces or Dressings

Front to Back: Orange Ginger, Orange Turmeric and Orange Miso

Of the citrus fruits, oranges are probably one of the most popular.  Although they are commonplace now, at one time they were considered exotic and precious. I recall from my own childhood, it was a tradition to add oranges to Christmas stockings. As children we were restricted to one piece of fruit a day because of the cost so a juicy and sweet orange was always a treat! 

Oranges and their origin

According to Nuovo, botanists believe that citrus trees are native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia and have been around for 20 million years. Arab traders first brought them from India and Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka) to some of the wealthiest families of the Roman Empire. Groves then appeared in Italy, North Africa, Spain and Portugal until at the end of the thirteenth century, they were bought by a Spanish boat to the United Kingdom. Since then, oranges have evolved from the fruit of European royalty and aristocrats to a kitchen staple for the masses.

Oranges and tahini

As mentioned in tahini as a plant-based staple, tahini is the paste of crushed sesame seeds and is rich in nutrients, protein and healthy fats. I use tahini for many dressings and sauces to enhance the flavour and nutrition of a simple salad or roasted vegetables. Oranges, similar to lemons or limes, mix well with tahini to create a deliciously rich, creamy, nutty, and tangy sauce which goes with many dishes and can add a refreshing twist to a meal.

Oranges and health

Oranges are a healthy source of fiber, vitamin C, thiamine, folate, and antioxidants. They are high in antioxidants and a rich source of several plant compounds and have multiple health benefits including lowering the risk of heart disease and kidney stones.

Recipes for Orange Tahini-Based Sauces or Dressings

These three variations of orange tahini-based sauces include a salty and tangy orange miso, an earthy, pungent orange ginger, or enjoy the golden colour of the earthy-sweet taste of orange turmeric. Any of these sauces can be drizzled on a dish to add a refreshing zing to a meal. For each of the sauces, add water to obtain the desired consistency.

Orange Miso Tahini

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup orange juice (1 orange)
• 2 tbsp white miso paste
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp mustard
• 1 tsp brown rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1-2 garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• water to thin as needed

Orange Ginger Tahini

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup orange juice (1 orange)
• 1/8 cup lemon juice (1/2 lemon)
• 1 tbsp tamari
• 1″ minced ginger root
• 1-2 garlic cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• water to thin as needed

Orange Tumeric Tahini

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup orange juice (1 orange)
• 1.5 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• water to thin as needed

Instructions for all three sauces or dressings:

1. Using a blender mix all ingredients except the water.
2. Add the water until reach the desired consistency.
3. Sprinkle orange zest on top for serving or mix in.
4. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Note:

While most forms of tahini sauce are gluten-free, sometimes gluten can be added to store-bought tahini as a thickener. If gluten is an issue, be sure to check all store bought brands for gluten, or alternatively here is a recipe to make your own tahini!

Closing Thoughts

Much like the lime, oranges are no stranger to folklore. Nuovo refers to oranges being exchanged among the unmarried as a subtle way of saying, “let love blossom.” In Greek mythology, “they had ties to fertility and innocence. In Victorian times, orange blossoms were used for garlands, bouquets, and tiaras for brides as symbols of youth, purity, and eternal love. Conversely, oranges also epitomized lust, seductive powers, passion, and flamboyance”.

Historically, with their juicy segments and rich colour that “captures the glow of the sun”, everyone who saw oranges and tasted them, wanted them! Although they are available much more easily today, they can still capture the imagination with their sweet, juicy taste and deep hue.  Why not try one of these creamy and refreshing citrus sauces to add a new and interesting flavour to dinner tonight?

Other Tahini Recipes:

• Lemon Tahini-Based Sauces and Dressings
• Lime Tahini-Based Sauces and Dressings
• Tahini as a Plant-Based Staple