Sesame seeds are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor and texture. Here's how to incorporate more sesame seeds into your cooking:
Using Sesame Seeds in Main Courses
- Coat Chicken and Meats: Sesame seeds work exceptionally well as a coating for chicken, fish, or pork. Before cooking, dip the protein in a light egg wash or marinade and then dredge it in sesame seeds. This creates a delicious, crunchy crust.
- Enhance Stir-Fries: Add sesame seeds to your favorite stir-fry recipes. Toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top just before serving add a nutty flavor and visual appeal.
- Incorporate into Rice Dishes: Mix toasted sesame seeds into cooked rice for a simple yet flavorful side dish. You can also combine them with soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions for an Asian-inspired rice bowl.
- Sesame-Crusted Tuna: A classic application is searing tuna steaks coated in sesame seeds. The contrast between the raw interior and the crunchy exterior is delightful.
Sesame Seeds in Salads and Dressings
- Warm Salads: Toasted sesame seeds add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor to warm salads featuring ingredients like roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or tofu.
- Salad Dressings: Make your own sesame seed dressing by blending sesame seeds with oil (sesame or olive), vinegar (rice or apple cider), soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, and spices. This is a fantastic alternative to store-bought dressings.
Utilizing Ground Sesame Seeds (Tahini)
- Hummus: Tahini is a crucial ingredient in hummus, providing its creamy texture and distinctive flavor.
- Baba Ghanoush: Another Middle Eastern dip, baba ghanoush, features roasted eggplant and tahini.
- Sauces and Dressings: Tahini can be used as a base for creamy sauces and dressings. Try combining it with lemon juice, garlic, and water for a simple and versatile sauce.
- Baking: Add tahini to cookies, cakes, and brownies for a unique nutty flavor and moist texture.
Other Creative Uses
- Sesame Seed Bread/Bagels: Sprinkle sesame seeds on bread or bagels before baking for added texture and flavor.
- Snacks: Create a homemade sesame seed snack mix by combining sesame seeds with other nuts, seeds, and spices.
- Topping for Noodles: Sprinkle on ramen or other noodle dishes for extra flavor and crunch.
Tips for Working with Sesame Seeds
- Toasting: Toasting sesame seeds enhances their flavor. Spread them in a single layer on a dry skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes).
- Storage: Store sesame seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Toasted sesame seeds should be used within a few weeks for optimal flavor.
- Types: There are different types of sesame seeds, including white, black, and brown. Each has a slightly different flavor profile.
By incorporating these ideas, you can easily increase your sesame seed consumption and enjoy their unique flavor and nutritional benefits.
