Sesame Seeds

These versatile seeds have a sweet, nutty taste that complements both savory and sweet dishes. A beloved ingredient in many cuisines, especially Middle Eastern and Asian, they provide a good dose of calcium, iron, and magnesium.

How to Choose Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds come in white, brown, or black varieties. White and brown taste similar; black seeds taste earthier and look more dramatic. Due to their high oil content, sesame seeds can turn rancid. For the freshest seeds, purchase from a reputable retailer where there’s a lot of turnover.
How to Store Sesame Seeds
For best results, freeze sesame seeds in an airtight container; use within one year. Discard your seeds if you suspect they have spoiled; rancid seeds will smell musty or similar to paint thinner and taste overly bitter.

How to Prepare Sesame Seeds
Many recipes call for toasting sesame seeds to bring out their nutty flavor: Heat the seeds in a heavy frying pan over medium heat, tossing occasionally until they start to darken and release their fragrance. They can also be ground with a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
How to Use Sesame Seeds
Add sesame seeds to homemade breads and salad dressings. Sprinkle toasted seeds on your favorite vegetables. Crush the seeds, mix with a little sesame oil, press the mixture onto fish steaks, and sear.

—Lori Baird

Real Simple Sesame Seed Recipes:
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