Learn how toasting sesame seeds brings out their rich, nutty flavor. Toast them easily at home with just a skillet.
I feel so silly that I used to spend money on toasted sesame seeds when toasting sesame seeds myself is not only super easy, but it also smells wonderful.
I love the nutty flavor that toasted sesame seeds add to some of my favorite dishes. These days, we keep a container of them in the pantry to add flavor, texture, or a bit of crunch to all kinds of meals.
The heat brings out their nutty aroma and deepens the flavor. Once you start toasting your own, it’s hard to go back to plain seeds.
What you need to toast sesame seeds
All you need is a frying pan and some sesame seeds.
Which color makes the best toasted sesame seeds?
Sesame seeds come in a variety of colors, the most common being white, black, and gold. While all three can be toasted the same way, the white seeds are the easiest to use, as doneness is determined by color. Here are the main differences:
- White sesame seeds are the most common and have a mild flavor. They’re great for baking, salads, and general cooking, and are the ones we use when toasting sesame seeds.
- Black sesame seeds almost always have the hull. They have a stronger, slightly more bitter taste and make a striking garnish on rice, noodles, or vegetables.
- Golden sesame seeds sit somewhere in the middle, with a rich flavor and warm color that works well in savory dishes.
Usage and storage suggestions
Toasted sesame seeds work well sprinkled over salads, noodles, rice bowls, salmon dishes, chicken, or roasted vegetables. I also add them to tofu dishes for visual appeal.
I store toasted sesame seeds in an airtight container once they have cooled. We keep them in the dark pantry. We know we could refrigerate them to make them last longer, but we use them up so quickly that it’s not worth it for us.
Toasting Sesame Seeds – Our recipe
Toasted sesame seeds
Toasted sesame seeds add rich nutty flavor and crisp texture to salads, noodles, vegetables, rice bowls, and baked dishes. Ready in just minutes on the stovetop.
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons sesame seeds (or as many as you want)
Instructions
- Place sesame seeds in a single layer across the bottom of a fry pan and heat over medium until they start to brown and/or start bouncing in the pan.
- Remove from heat and cool on a plate.
Notes
I usually start heating the pan before I add the seeds; the order makes no difference to the final result.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: ½ tspAmount Per Serving: Calories: 14Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 0mgCarbohydrates: 1gFiber: 0gProtein: 0g
Nutritional information isn't always accurate and it will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
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