Open Sesame!

The sesame plant is one of the oldest plants known. Primarily, it is cultivated for seeds and oil. It is especially valued in Mediterranean, African, and Eastern cultures. Sesame seeds can be found in many varieties, most commonly; white, tan or black. Due to the lack of processing, use the whole tan color sesame seeds when possible. These seeds have many culinary uses as well as uses in healing. Ayurvedic medicine values them highly. Sesame oil can be used for light frying, as a body lotion or oil for massage.

Sesame benefits

• • It is a warming food
  • The seeds contain over 35 percent protein, more than any other nut or seed.
  • They are a fantastic source of calcium.
  • They are made up of about 50 percent oil, and are high in vitamin E. Sesame oil and butter are both highly stable and resistant to oxidization.
  • Sesame products contain as much iron as liver. They are rich in phosphorus, niacin, and thiamine. There is a unique surplus of two amino acids, methionine and tryptophan. These are usually lacking in most vegetable protein foods.
  • The seeds contain essential fatty acids.
  • The oil is best used unrefined, since it is very easily extracted and can be pressed at low temperatures. It does not become rancid easily because it naturally contains the antioxidant “sesamol”.
  • Sesame contains moderate amounts of oxalate. However, individuals with a history of oxalate-containing kidney stones should avoid over consuming them.

Remedial uses

• • Lubricates dryness. It relieves constipation. Add a few drops to food during cooking, or take two tablespoons on an empty stomach.
  • Detoxifies. Destroys ringworm, scabies, and most fungal skin diseases.
  • A superior massage oil for sore muscles and rheumatism/arthritis.
  • Cooking. Whole sesame seeds can be used in baking, salads and vegetable dishes.

Preparation

• • Washing the seeds removes any bitter taste. To wash, place the seeds in a bowl and fill with water. Pour the seeds into a strainer, being careful not to pour out any of the sand or grit that may have settled in the bottom of the bowl.
  • Toasting them enhances the flavor. Place on a pan over medium heat, stirring them constantly, until a nutty aroma appears.

Recipes

You can make sesame butter out of whole roasted sesame seeds. Use it interchangeably with peanut butter. Simply spread sesame butter or paste on bread, add a layer of raw honey, and enjoy!

Tahini

Sweet Tahini

I grew up mixing tahini paste with homemade jam and a splash of milk. Then eating it with Chala bread, Yum!

Gomasio

Sesame Spread

Combine sesame seeds with honey, a pinch of carob, a pinch of cinnamon, and a tiny pinch of salt. Place all ingredients in a coffee grinder and keep blending to a buttery consistency. Enjoy it as a peanut butter replacement.

Halva 

A sweet made of sesame and honey. Make sure it has only these ingredients rather than sugar or other added chemicals. Traditionally, women eat halva to prolong youth and beauty, and men eat it for strength and energy.

Enjoy your cooking journey and taste the bliss!