Seeds | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Carb Paleo

Sesame Seeds

Sesamum indicum Allergens: Sesame
sesame seeds

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Pedaliaceae
  • Primary Cuisine East Asian,Middle Eastern
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Sesame Plant

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond the Bun: Explore the ancient versatility of sesame seeds, from flavor enhancer to nutrient powerhouse in global cuisine."

Definition

Small, edible seeds from the sesame plant, widely used for their nutty flavor and crunchy texture in baking, garnishes, and oils.

Sensory Profile

TasteNutty,Earthy
TextureCrunchy,Gritty
AromaToasty,Earthy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Calcium (Unshelled)

~975 mg per 100g

Global Production (2022)

~7.6 million tons

Protein Content

~18g per 100g

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tbsp (9g)
Calories573 kcal
Total Fat50 g
Saturated Fat7 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein18 g
Total Carbohydrate23 g
Dietary Fiber12 g
Total Sugars0.3 g
Calcium975 mg
Iron14.6 mg
Potassium468 mg

Chef’s Secret

Toasting sesame seeds gently in a dry pan enhances their nutty flavor and aroma significantly before use in dishes or as a garnish.

Substitutions

Best Match

Poppy Seeds

1:1

Offers a similar tiny crunch and mild, nutty flavor, especially as a garnish.

Chia Seeds

1:1

Provides a crunch and visual similarity, though flavor is milder and texture gelatinous when wet.

Toasted Breadcrumbs

1:1

For textural crunch and a toasty note, especially on savory dishes.

Flax Seeds (ground)

1:1

For nutritional benefits and a nutty flavor, but less crunch than whole sesame seeds.

Buying Guide

Look for fresh seeds with a uniform color; store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place or refrigerator.

Flavor Pairings

Breads Bagels Salads Stir-fries Sushi Hummus Tahini Asian desserts

Recipes Using Sesame Seeds

Side Dishes Pasta Rice And Grains Dietary Side Dishes

I Stole The Idea From Mirj Sesame Noodles

Inspired by Mirj's famous Funky Chicken Sesame Noodles, this recipe puts a spicy twist on a classic! We've taken the irresistible sesame noodle base and amped up the flavor with a touch of red pepper flakes. Get ready for a quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious meal that's totally different yet undeniably similar to the original. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and will quickly become a family favorite!

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Small Appliance Fruit Small Appliance Brunch

Almond Energizer

Fuel your day with this creamy, dreamy Almond Energizer! This quick and easy recipe (inspired by #295198) delivers a rich almond delight that's perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a healthy treat. Packed with protein and healthy fats, it's the perfect energy boost. Try it today!

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Salads Course Asian 30 Minutes Or Less

Asian Cabbage Salad

This vibrant Asian Cabbage Salad is a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a luau or any summer gathering! Crispy ramen noodles, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds add incredible texture to this flavorful salad. Easily customizable – enjoy it as a refreshing vegetarian salad or elevate it to a hearty Chinese Chicken Salad by adding grilled chicken and peanuts. Inspired by a partyshop.com recipe.

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To Go Low Carb One Dish Meal Low In Something

Asian Grilled Beef Salad

Unlock explosive flavor with this Asian Grilled Beef Salad! We're flipping the script on traditional marinades – grilling the beef *first*, then infusing it with our vibrant Asian-inspired marinade for an unparalleled depth of flavor. This recipe delivers juicy, tender beef tossed with fresh greens, crunchy veggies, and a tantalizing dressing. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Dietary North American Salmon Main Ingredient

Asian Grilled Salmon Low Carb Fabulous

This vibrant Asian-inspired grilled salmon recipe is perfect for a low-carb, diabetic-friendly diet. Marinated to perfection and grilled to flaky tenderness, this dish is bursting with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes! Impress your family and friends with this healthy and satisfying meal.

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Asian Easy

Asian Inspired Asparagus

Whip up this flavorful Asian-inspired asparagus side dish in just 21 minutes! A quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, boasting bright, fresh flavors that will complement any main course. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Pasta Ground Beef Pasta Rice And Grains Pasta

Asian Meatballs With Rice Noodles

These flavorful Asian meatballs, bursting with fresh herbs and a touch of spice, are tossed with delicious rice noodles for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a tasty lunch, this recipe delivers an explosion of authentic Asian flavors. Inspired by a successful contest entry, this recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Easily adjustable spice level – reduce the chili for a milder dish. Discover the secret ingredient: sesame oil for extra noodle deliciousness! This recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

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Low In Something Course Kid Friendly Beans

Asian Noodles With Edamame

Quick and easy Asian noodle bowl bursting with fresh flavors! This vibrant recipe features tender noodles, sweet edamame, crunchy carrots, and a zesty soy-ginger dressing. Inspired by a Vegetarian Times recipe (Sept 2005), this updated version is perfect for a weeknight meal or a light lunch.

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Weeknight Equipment Course Fish

Asian Salmon Cakes

Transform leftover salmon into sensational Asian Salmon Cakes! This recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy flaky salmon in a crispy panko crust with a vibrant Asian-inspired flavor profile. Perfect as a sandwich filling, served atop a fresh salad, or enjoyed as a standalone appetizer. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation 15 Minutes Or Less

Asian Slaw

This Asian slaw recipe is a crowd-pleaser! A vibrant mix of crunchy ramen noodles, shredded cabbage, carrots, and edamame tossed in a savory sesame ginger dressing. Toasted almonds and sesame seeds add extra texture and flavor. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a quick weeknight meal. Make the dressing ahead and toss just before serving to keep the slaw crisp and refreshing!

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Chicken Breasts Course Chicken Picnic

Asian Style Chicken Ramen Dinner Cole Slaw

Craving a quick, flavorful, and unique salad? This Asian Style Chicken Ramen Salad is your answer! This creamy, non-sweet recipe combines crispy chicken, crunchy ramen noodles, and a refreshing coleslaw for a dish that's perfect as a light dinner, a satisfying side, or a crowd-pleasing potluck star. Easy to make in under 30 minutes, this recipe is packed with Asian-inspired flavors and customizable to your liking. Add your favorite toppings like sliced black olives, almonds, or fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor!

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Chinese Chicken Breasts Low In Something 60 Minutes Or Less

Awesome Sesame Chicken

Craving that restaurant-quality sesame chicken? This recipe delivers! Inspired by a beloved about.com find, this easy-to-follow recipe is a family favorite, requested at least twice a month in our household. While it has several ingredients, the process is surprisingly simple and yields incredibly flavorful, crispy chicken in a luscious sesame sauce. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Main Ingredient Dietary Main Dish 30 Minutes Or Less

Balsamic Salmon

Impress your guests with this elegant and easy Balsamic Glazed Salmon recipe! Inspired by Chatelaine magazine (April 2001) and Canada AM co-host Dan Matheson, this recipe delivers flaky, flavorful salmon in just 16 minutes. Sweet balsamic glaze complements the richness of the salmon perfectly, creating a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.

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Time To Make Meat Vegetables Cuisine

Beef Teriyaki With Cucumber Salsa

This vibrant and healthy Beef Teriyaki recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner, perfect for satisfying your red meat cravings without the guilt! Lean flank steak marinates in a flavorful teriyaki sauce, then cooks to perfection. The refreshing cucumber salsa, made with crisp cucumbers, bell peppers, and a tangy sweet-and-sour dressing, adds a delightful contrast. Prepare the salsa ahead of time for effortless assembly. Bethany's family-friendly version makes this dish adaptable for any occasion! #beefteriyaki #cucumber #salsa #healthyrecipes #quickdinner #easyrecipe #flank steak #asiancuisine

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Asian Dietary Time To Make Main Dish

Beef With Fresh Asparagus

This vibrant Beef with Fresh Asparagus stir-fry recipe delivers a burst of umami and fresh spring flavors. Inspired by a cherished family recipe, this dish is easily customizable to your spice preference. Tender beef marinated in a savory soy sauce mixture is perfectly complemented by crisp-tender asparagus and carrots. A quick and easy weeknight meal the whole family will love!

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Beef Time To Make Preparation Asian

Beef Yakiniku

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this incredibly flavorful Beef Yakiniku! This easy-to-follow recipe uses thinly sliced sukiyaki beef (easily found at Asian markets) and a savory sauce featuring sake and white wine for an unforgettable taste. Ready in under 40 minutes, it's the perfect balance of speed and deliciousness. Serve over fluffy steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Preparation Cuisine Dietary Meat

Bhutanese Chile Chicken With Red Rice

Experience the fiery flavors of the Himalayas with this Bhutanese-inspired chicken stir-fry! This healthier twist on a classic recipe uses whole-grain red rice for extra fiber and reduces sodium and fat. Customize the heat with your favorite chili—jalapenos, Thai chilis, or even ghost peppers for the truly adventurous. A vibrant and flavorful dish ready in under an hour!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Breads Grains Dietary

Big Sur Bakery Hide Bread Recipe

Taste the magic of Big Sur! This recipe, inspired by Terry "Hide" Prince and the legendary Big Sur Bakery, delivers a dense, nutrient-packed bread bursting with flavor. Imagine a hearty, seed-studded English muffin, elevated with the unique coastal twist of kelp for seasoning. This isn't your average bread; it's a powerhouse of amaranth, millet, quinoa, flax seeds, and wholesome grains, offering a blissful buttery crunch after toasting. Adapted from a sea voyage recipe, this bread is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a unique side, get ready for a taste of Big Sur in your kitchen.

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