Best Egusi Paste Substitutes
What Can I Use Instead of Egusi Paste in a Recipe?
Use 75% of the called-for amount (so if the recipe calls for 1 cup Egusi Paste, use 0.75 cup Sesame Seed Paste (Tahini)). Tahini provides similar nutty richness and thickening power. Use 75% the amount as tahini is more concentrated and intense.
Looking for the best Egusi Paste substitute? You're in the right place. We've rounded up 4 reliable Egusi Paste replacements that work in cooking and baking — ranked and explained so you can pick the right one for your recipe. Great for when you want to save money at the store or keep things plant-based. The top pick is Sesame Seed Paste (Tahini) — it's the closest match for most recipes. Use 75% of the amount. Tahini provides similar nutty richness and thickening power. Use 75% the amount as tahini is more concentrated and intense.
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Get ratios for Egusi Paste →All Egusi Paste Substitutes (4 options)
Tahini provides similar nutty richness and thickening power. Use 75% the amount as tahini is more concentrated and intense.
Powder form is more concentrated; use less and add extra liquid to sauce. Slightly grainier texture but same nutty flavor.
Mix equal parts ground pumpkin seeds and ground sesame seeds (1:1 by volume). Pumpkin adds earthiness; sesame adds richness.
Mix 0.75 cup peanut butter with 2–3 tbsp water to reach paste consistency. Peanut is richer and more assertive; reduces egusi's delicate character.
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Tips for Substituting Egusi Paste
For most recipes, Sesame Seed Paste (Tahini) is the best starting point. Tahini provides similar nutty richness and thickening power. Use 75% the amount as tahini is more concentrated and intense. Going plant-based? Sesame Seed Paste (Tahini), Ground Pumpkin Seeds + Ground Sesame Seeds are both vegan-friendly options that work well in most recipes. Watching your grocery budget? Ground Pumpkin Seeds + Ground Sesame Seeds is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you're unsure which Egusi Paste substitute to use, think about why the original is in the recipe: flavor, texture, moisture, or binding? Choose the substitute that best matches that function.
Common Questions About Egusi Paste Substitutes
The best substitute for Egusi Paste is Sesame Seed Paste (Tahini). Use about 75% of the amount called for. Tahini provides similar nutty richness and thickening power. Use 75% the amount as tahini is more concentrated and intense.
This guide lists 4 Egusi Paste alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.
Sesame Seed Paste (Tahini) is a great plant-based alternative to Egusi Paste. Tahini provides similar nutty richness and thickening power. Use 75% the amount as tahini is more concentrated and intense.
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