Sesame seeds are edible seeds of the sesame plant and add a pleasant, savory, nutty flavor and color to your dish. It’s a nutrient-rich ingredient used throughout the world.

White and Black Sesame Seeds | Easy Japanese Recipes at JustOneCookbook.com

Sesame seeds (胡麻・ごま) are considered to be the oldest oilseed crop known to humanity. In addition to eating the whole seed, it’s also pressed into oil for sesame oil. The Japanese use white and black sesame and whole and crushed seeds in the cuisine.

Table of contents

What Are Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are tiny, flat, oval-shaped seeds that grow in pods on the sesame plant (Sesamum indicum), native to parts of Africa and India. The Chinese have harvested sesame seeds for over 5,000 years, and records exist of Ancient Egyptians and Romans using the plant for culinary and medicinal use.

These seeds are commonly used in cooking and baking in many global cuisines, including Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Asian, and African dishes. You may be familiar with it in hummus, tahini, and sprinkled on top of burger buns.

The Japanese use whole and ground seeds in their cuisine as a garnish, in a paste for vegetable dressing, in baked goods, and shokupan.

Sesame is a common allergen, so allergic people should avoid all sesame products.

1 Tbsp sesame seeds = 8-9 grams.

What Do They Taste Like

It has a nutty, earthy, and slightly sweet flavor.

Variety of Sesame Seeds

There are two types:

How To Toast

If the seeds are not roasted (you will notice that they don’t have a toasty color), you can toast them in a frying pan (without oil) over medium-low heat. It’ll bring out the aroma and nuttiness. Gently stir occasionally for two to three minutes or until the seeds turn light brown, glisten, and occasionally pop. It can burn quickly, so keep an eye on the pan.

You can also toast toasted seeds to bring out the aroma and flavor.

White and Black Sesame Seeds | Easy Japanese Recipes at JustOneCookbook.com

How To Use

In Japanese cuisine, they are used in a wide range of culinary applications, including sprinkling on salads, rice bowls and noodle dishes, stir-fries, and baked goods, as well as in producing neri goma and cooking oil.

Where To Buy

Find it at Japanese and Asian grocery stores and regular supermarkets.

How To Store

Keep them in a cool, dark place away from sunlight and heat sources. Store them in an airtight container or a resealable bag with minimal air to prevent moisture and contaminants.

Refrigeration or freezing can extend shelf life, especially in warm climates. Check for freshness by smelling and tasting before use. Proper storage helps maintain their quality for several months to over a year.

Health Benefits

The seeds offer a range of health benefits due to their rich nutritional content, which includes healthy fats, protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Recipes Using Sesame Seeds


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