Sesame Seeds
Posted by Supal on July 07, 2011 in Condiments, Featured, Photos, Recipes, Reviews
Tags: sesame seed paste, sesame seeds, spices, tahini
This post is by Eat With Me contributor Supal. See more at Simple Cooking with Supal.
Sesame seeds are small, flat oval-shaped seeds with a nutty flavor and light crunch. There are a variety of colors including white, yellow, back and red, but the most commonly used are black and white, especially in baking and Asian cooking.
Sesame seeds are grown and cultivated in tropical regions like India. In Asian cuisine, sesame seeds are roasted and then added as a garnish to add another element of texture to a dish. In Middle Eastern cuisine, sesame seeds are the main ingredients in tahini (sesame seed paste), which is used to make hummus.
Black sesame seeds is the richest, high in oil and highest in calcium compared to the others. They also contain more antioxidants than any of the others because they are the most ripe. You know what is really exciting about black sesame seeds? They are known to be an anti-aging food, so take them by the spoonfuls! Try adding a sprinkle of these to your white rice when you’re eating Chinese food or add it to the dough for your crusty bread before baking. White sesame seeds are widely used. They are milder in flavor and often bigger than black sesame seeds.
When selecting sesame seeds, make sure to purchase a brand that is more known. These companies that produce higher yields have the freshest sesame seeds, and since sesame seeds have oil–it is important to get the freshest to avoid any rancid or off flavors. Then to store, keep in a airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place (preferably a refrigerator).
What do I use sesame for? Sesame seeds are a good source of calcium, iron, vitamin B, and fiber. I try to incorporate it into my meals as much as possible.
- When making savory baked goods, add some to the dough for a light crunch.
- Use it in a seasoning or spice rub for meat marinades.
- Add honey and sesame on a banana for a snack!
- Add it to lo mein.
- Add it to a sauce, dip, spread or pesto.
What are some of your ideas?!
