We’re coving the basics on how to use sesame seeds in cooking. From creamy tahini to nutty sesame oil, this is a flavorful seed you should be using!
It was only a matter of time before my deep-rooted love of hummus manifested in the form of our spotlight ingredient being sesame. We did chickpeas, so naturally we have to tackle the other main character in hummus…sesame!
Or tahini, to be exact. But what actually is tahini and how do you use it? Good question! Today we’re covering the basic sesame-based products and how to use sesame seeds in your cooking!
How to Use Sesame Seeds
I love to use sesame seeds as a seasoning or garnish. They give a great nutty, toasty flavor! Sesame in general is high in B vitamins and polyunsaturated fat (the good kind of fat!), so a quick sprinkle of sesame seeds can really boost the nutritional value of your meal. You can use the seeds to make:
- Sesame honey brittle
- Sesame garlic roasted asparagus
- Sesame seed crackers
- Sesame Brussels sprouts mushroom tofu bowls
- Sesame noodles with broccoli
How to Use Tahini
Tahini is made from grinding roasted sesame seeds into a smooth paste. While it can be a bit astringent when eaten alone, it does wonders for the creamy, nuttiness of hummus and baba ganoush (and, of course, our baba-ga-hummus!)
Tahini is also used to create halvah, a crumbly confectionary made from tahini and sugar or honey.
How to Use Sesame Oil
As with the rest of the sesame products, use sesame oil to bring nutty, toastiness to your foods. It has a decently high smoke point, meaning it is good to use for high heat cooking (like stir fries). Try it next time you whip up a quick stir fry. You’ll be surprised by the added punch of flavor it brings!
You may see two varieties of sesame oil: light and dark. The light sesame oil is good for using in cooking as it has a more mild flavor. Dark sesame oil, with its stronger flavor, is good for adding to dressings and marinades.
How to Use Sesame Flour
Sesame flour can be used a lot like your other nut/seed-based flours. It’s a gluten-free option that will need some coaxing to be made into a fluffy bread-substitute, but that can be mixed into all-purpose flour for added sesame flavor in things like biscuits and breads.
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