Category: Seed
Sesame seeds are small, flat seeds that come from the sesame plant. They have a nutty flavor and are commonly used in cooking and baking. Sesame seeds are often sprinkled on top of breads, buns, and other baked goods, or used as a garnish on salads and stir-fries. They can also be ground into a paste called tahini, which is a key ingredient in dishes like hummus and baba ghanoush. Sesame seeds are rich in nutrients like protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.
Flavor Profiles:
- Nutty
- Slightly Sweet
What goes with Sesame Seeds:
- Sugar –
- Dark Chocolate – The bitter flavor of dark chocolate complements the nutty flavor of sesame seeds, and the rich, smooth texture of dark chocolate contrasts nicely with the crunch of sesame seeds.
- Chicken – Sesame seeds add a nice crunch and flavor to chicken dishes, and can be used in marinades, glazes, or as a topping.
- Salads – Sesame seeds can be sprinkled on salads for added crunch and flavor, and sesame oil can be used in salad dressings.
- Cucumber – Cucumber pairs well with sesame seeds because the nutty flavor of the seeds complements the refreshing and crisp taste of the cucumber.
- Rice – Sesame seeds can be toasted and sprinkled on rice dishes, and sesame oil can be used to add flavor to rice pilafs and other dishes.
- Bread – Sesame seeds are a common topping for bread, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, and add a nice flavor and texture.
- Bell Peppers – Bell peppers pair well with sesame seeds because the nutty flavor of the seeds complements the sweet and slightly tangy taste of the peppers.
- Vegetables – Sesame seeds can be used as a topping for roasted or steamed vegetables, and sesame oil can be used in vegetable stir-fries or as a dip for raw vegetables.
- Ginger – The spicy, slightly sweet flavor of ginger complements the nutty flavor of sesame seeds, and the warm, aromatic scent of ginger enhances the flavor of sesame seeds.
- Sushi – Sesame seeds, particularly white sesame seeds, are a traditional garnish for sushi and provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
- Stir-Fries – Sesame seeds can be toasted and sprinkled on stir-fries for added crunch and nutty flavor, and sesame oil is often used in stir-fry sauces.
- Soy Sauce – Soy sauce pairs well with sesame seeds because the nutty flavor of the seeds complements the salty and umami-rich taste of the sauce.
- Green Onions – Green onions pair well with sesame seeds because the nutty flavor of the seeds complements the fresh, slightly spicy taste of the onions.
- Dressing – Dressing pairs well with sesame seeds because the nutty flavor and crunchy texture of the seeds complement the creamy and tangy taste of the dressing.
- Soups – Sesame seeds can be used as a garnish for creamy soups, and sesame oil can be added to soups for added flavor.
- Rice Vinegar – Rice vinegar pairs well with sesame seeds because its mild acidity enhances the nutty flavor of the seeds.
- Desserts – Sesame seeds, particularly black sesame seeds, are used in many Asian desserts, and sesame oil can be used in baking or as a drizzle over ice cream or fruit.
- Scallions – Scallions pair well with sesame seeds because the mild onion flavor of the scallions complements the nutty and slightly sweet taste of the sesame seeds.