Sesame seeds

Sesame seeds come from the sesame plant (Sesamum indicum), which is one of the oldest oilseed crops known. They are highly valued globally for their rich, nutty flavor and substantial oil content.  

Here is a detailed description of sesame seeds:

Physical Characteristics

• Size and Shape: Sesame seeds are very small, typically measuring about 3-4 mm long. They are ovate (egg-shaped) and slightly flattened, often described as resembling a miniature teardrop.  

• Color Varieties: Sesame seeds come in a range of colors, with the most common being:

• White/Hulled (Off-White/Ivory): These are the most common in Western cuisine, used for baking and garnish. They have had their outer husk (hull) removed, resulting in a milder flavor.

• Black: These are unhulled and often considered to have a stronger, more intense flavor. They are prominent in Asian cuisines.  

• Other Colors: Varieties also exist in buff, tan, gold, brown, and red.  

• Texture and Flavor:

• Raw: They have a mild, slightly nutty flavor.  

• Toasted/Roasted: Toasting significantly enhances their natural oils and brings out a much richer, more pronounced nutty aroma and flavor.  

• Texture: They provide a noticeable, pleasant crunchy texture when used as a garnish or ingredient.  

Culinary and General Uses

Sesame seeds are incredibly versatile and are a staple ingredient across many global cuisines:  

• Oil Production: They are primarily an oilseed crop, yielding sesame oil, which is used for cooking (especially toasted sesame oil for flavoring) and in the cosmetic industry.  

• Pastes and Condiments:

• Tahini: A paste made from ground sesame seeds, a fundamental ingredient in hummus and baba ghanoush.  

• Goma-shio: A Japanese dry condiment made from toasted sesame seeds and salt.  

• Baking and Garnishes: Used widely to top breads (like bagels and hamburger buns), pastries, crackers, and sprinkled over stir-fries, salads, and noodle dishes.  

• Sweets: Used in various confectionery items such as halva (a dense, sweet confection) and sesame brittle.  

Nutritional Profile

Sesame seeds are a nutrient powerhouse, especially known for their high content of:

• Healthy Fats: High in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats.  

• Protein and Fiber: A good plant-based source of both.  

• Vitamins and Minerals: They are notably rich in Copper, Manganese, Magnesium, Calcium (especially unhulled seeds), Iron, and Zinc.  

• Antioxidants: They contain unique plant compounds called lignans (like sesamin and sesamolin), which are known for their antioxidant and potential health benefits, including supporting heart health and bone density.