Sesame Seeds

Description

Meet the sesame seed, a tiny, yet powerful ingredient that has been gracing our dishes for thousands of years. Sesame seeds, also known as benne seeds, are small, flat and oval-shaped seeds with a delicate, nutty flavor. They come in a variety of hues, from cream-white to charcoal-black, each with a unique flavor profile. The white seeds are subtly sweet and commonly used in baking, while the black seeds are slightly bitter and used in savory dishes. What sets them apart is their high oil content, which gives them a rich, creamy texture when ground into tahini or sesame paste.

Primary Uses

Sesame seeds are incredibly versatile and used across a multitude of cuisines. They are sprinkled over breads and pastries for a crunchy texture, ground into tahini for hummus and other Middle Eastern dishes, and used in Asian cuisine for their rich, nutty flavor. They are also a key ingredient in the production of sesame oil, a staple in Asian cooking. Beyond their culinary uses, sesame seeds are also used in traditional medicines for their health benefits and in religious ceremonies for their symbolic significance.

History

The history of sesame seeds is as rich as their flavor. They are believed to be one of the oldest oilseed crops, with archaeological evidence dating back to 3500 BC in the Indus Valley. In ancient Egypt, they were ground into flour, while the Romans used them to make a type of wine. In West Africa, they were known as 'benne' and believed to bring good luck, which is why they were brought to the American South during the slave trade. Over time, their use has evolved and they are now a key ingredient in a range of dishes from bagels to sushi.

Nutritional Information

Despite their small size, sesame seeds pack a nutritional punch. They are a good source of healthy fats, high-quality protein, and dietary fiber. They are also rich in minerals like magnesium, calcium, and zinc, and loaded with antioxidants. Regular consumption of sesame seeds can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and boost bone health. Compared to other seeds, sesame seeds have a higher oil content which provides a unique combination of omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids. These tiny seeds are indeed a testament to the saying, "good things come in small packages".