Koska Tahin Pekmez is the traditional pairing of sesame tahini and grape molasses, ready mixed in a 350 g glass jar. According to the retailer label data it is made of 60% grape molasses and 40% tahini, with no other ingredients listed, and the jar carries a “Doğal Lif Kaynağı” (natural source of fibre) badge. Koska, founded in 1907, is one of Türkiye’s best-known halva and tahini houses.
In Turkish homes tahin-pekmez is a breakfast staple and a favourite sweet for children: spread it on bread, or pour it onto a plate and dip simit, pide or a piece of toast into it. It is also lovely stirred into yoghurt or oatmeal, drizzled over pancakes, or used as a quick filling for sweet rolls. The molasses brings a dark, fruity sweetness and the tahini adds a rich, toasted sesame flavour, so a little goes a long way.
As the jar contains sesame, read the label carefully if anyone at your table has a seed or nut allergy. Store it in a cool, dry place with the lid closed; if oil rises to the top, simply stir it back in before serving.