There’s a reason why sesame is the most popular seeds in folklore the world over. That’s because it is one of the best-tasting and healthiest seeds out there.
Some people call it a superfood because it not only tastes good, but it also builds strong bones, fights chronic stress, and eases digestion. This humble seed also regulates blood sugar, prevents rheumatoid arthritis, helps with insomnia, and lowers blood pressure.
Sesame seeds were even rationed to some soldiers during ancient times to help them survive their strenuous tasks. Some old folklores also consider sesame seeds as a food promoting immortality. That was quite a feat for a small seed!
Taste Difference Between Black and White Sesame Seeds
The black sesame seed type has a slightly bitter taste. White sesame contains more carbohydrates and is sweeter, whereas black sesame has more sodium, so they taste nutty. White sesame seeds have a earthy sweet taste better suited for baked good and sweeter recipes. The black seeds, on the other hand, suits most savory dishes as it balances out the meaty flavor and saltiness of a recipe.
Black sesame seeds have higher oil content, so most sesame oil in the market came from black sesame seeds. Black sesame seeds are more prevalent in Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian dishes. White sesame seeds, on the other hand, are more favored in the Americas as well as in the Middle East. Black seeds have a more potent aroma and taste, while white sesame seeds have a mildly sweet, nutty flavor.
Nutritional Difference Between Black and White Sesame Seeds
Both varieties of sesame seeds boosts the bones, but the black type contains more calcium. People who need an alternative source of calcium (those who are lactose intolerant) can benefit from eating sesame seeds. Black sesame has a more substantial tonic effect. It nourishes the blood and energizes the immune system. Likewise, black sesame has higher fat, fiber, protein, vitamin B1, potassium, iron, magnesium, copper, and zinc content.
The white sesame seeds, on the other hand, are better for improving digestion and maintaining healthy, glowing skin. Vitamin E, C, and K are way higher in white sesame seeds than in its black counterpart.
Why People Love Sesame Seeds
You know sesame seeds as the stuff on your burger buns, but it has a hundred more uses than that. Asian people use sesame seeds on a thousand dishes, from soups to baked goods and even ice cream! Sesame seeds have that nutty umami toasted taste that makes for an excellent snack or as a dressing to salads, an addition to ramen, a seasoning to sautéed vegetables, and as a topping to bread. You can also ground the seeds to turn it into tahini paste. Sesame seeds is one of the ingredients in hummus, a popular Middle Eastern dish.
Chefs and food connoisseurs use sesame seeds on their recipe for its exotic aroma, crunch, and fantastic taste. The best way to get the best flavor out of your sesame seeds is to toast or bake the seeds before mixing them on your dish.
Make every day a sesame seeds day by using it on your daily dishes. Here are a couple of ways on how you can add a dash of sesame to your food.
- Coat your cooked buffalo wings with some barbeque sauce and sesame seeds.
- Make some healthy granola bar using the same granola recipe mixed with a heaping serving of sesame.
- Add a dash of crunch and nutty sweetness to your salad by sprinkling it with sesame seeds.
- Transform your pork or beef stew from ordinary to appetizing with some black sesame garnish.
- Top your cookie or cupcake with some sesame seeds and bake.
Health Benefits of Sesame Seeds
Both black and white sesame seeds are rich in copper, calcium magnesium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, molybdenum, selenium, and fiber. Sesame seeds have high–fat content, but it’s mostly good fat, not the unhealthy kind. The seeds are also an excellent source of protein. Aside from the high fiber content, sesame seeds have a low glycemic index, perfect for people with diabetes. Eating it will keep you feeling full longer without spiking up your blood sugar levels.
Now that you got your appetite whet by some exciting information about sesame seeds, it‘s about time for you to get your supply of the freshest-tasting sesame seeds online. Click on our shop and help yourself with some black and white sesame seeds we have in store for you.