Sweet Potato–Tahini Dip with Za'atar

A creamy, Middle Eastern-inspired dip that combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with nutty tahini and aromatic za'atar spice blend. Perfect for serving with pita bread or fresh vegetables.

6 servings
1 hr 20 min

Ingredients

  • 2 whole sweet potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon raw sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon sumac
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons filtered water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 dashes hot sauce
  • 1 pinch black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Preheat the oven to 400°F.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Pierce the sweet potatoes all over with a fork and wrap each one tightly in foil. Place on a baking sheet and roast until the flesh gives easily when pressed, about 1 hour. Unwrap and set aside to cool completely.

    60 min

  3. 3.

    To make the za'atar, toast the sesame seeds in a small skillet over low heat until golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and add the thyme, sumac, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir and set aside.

    3 min

  4. 4.

    Peel the sweet potatoes and place them in a food processor. Add the tahini, water, lemon juice, hot sauce, a few turns of pepper, and 2 teaspoons of the prepared za'atar. Puree until completely smooth. Taste and season with more salt and pepper, if needed.

    10 min

  5. 5.

    Scrape the dip into a small serving bowl, drizzle with the oil, and sprinkle with a teaspoon of the za'atar.

    2 min

  6. 6.

    The dip can be made up to a day in advance and stored in airtight containers in the fridge.