Toast the sesame seeds. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or pan and add the sesame seeds. Use a wooden spoon or heat-resistant utensil to constantly toss and stir the seeds. Toast for 1-2 minutes until the seeds start to brown.
Blend the seeds. Transfer the sesame seeds to a food processor (see notes for equipment recommendations). Start at a slow speed and then gradually increase as the seeds break down. Continue processing, scraping the sides, until the tahini is smooth and creamy.
Notes
Use a guideline of 2 cups of sesame seeds for 1 cup of tahini. The nutritional information provided is based on one tablespoon.
Making sesame paste requires a food processor or other devices such as a blender or spice grinder.
You need enough volume of seeds to create friction between the sesame seeds and the blades and sides of the apparatus. Use at least 2 or 3 cups of sesame seeds if you have a standard food processor.
If you can't get the creamy texture you desire, consider transferring the tahini to a smaller blender or spice grinder (even in batches). If all else fails, add a little warm water and continue blending.