The Amazing Seed: Benefits, Recipes, and More!
The Darker The Seed, The Higher The Nutrient Content.
Black sesame seeds are packed with minerals, such as calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, & Vitamin E and B vitamins. Often used in East Asia, TMC (traditional Chinese medicine) believe black sesame seeds are beneficial for over all health.
Heres some benefits:
-Nourishes the liver, kidneys which are foundational organs for our vitality and blood health.
-Great for health health! Nutrients such as copper and irons found within the seeds prevent hair-loss by strengthening the hair, and also known to delay the greying process of the hair!
-Can help lubricate the intestines and promote regular bowl movements. Supportive for digestion.
-Anti-aging properties due to high amounts of oxidant which can
-Black sesame seeds promote the building and nourishment of our blood.
-A source of healthy fat, and plant based protein
-Supports bone health and lactation due to their high calcium content. Just one TBSP contains about 88 milligrams of calcium, which is about 9% of your daily recommended intake.
Fun Info!
The sesame plant, or sesamum indicum has been used for thousands of years, it was once thought to have magical properties which is where the expression "Open Sesame" came from! There are 3 variations, white, brown, and black, all coming from the same plant. The difference is that the lighter colored seeds are hulled meaning the shell or husk has been removed. Black sesame seeds are not hulled, they still have their husk intact, which is why they have more micronutrients, and the flavor profile is deeper with rustic and bitter undertones. In Chinese culture, black sesame seeds are considered a symbol of immortality and longevity based on its nutrient dense profile and ability to promote vitality.
Usages
- SPRINKLE SPRINKLE! Black sesame seeds are an incredible topper for meat dishes, salads, rice, desserts, and baked goods.
-Make a paste. Ground sesame paste is also called tahini. Often used within Middle Eastern dishes, such as hummus.
-Desserts. In asian sweet treats you will find the nutty deliciousness of black sesame used within ice cream flavors, sesame balls, bao buns, cookies, cakes, and beverages.
I love sesame seeds because they are versatile, delicious, nutty in flavor and hold a nutritional kick. Black sesame seeds have
How to make Black Sesame Seed Paste
Ingredients
For Black Sesame Paste for Sweets
- 1 cup toasted black sesame seeds
- ½ tsp honey (optional)
For Black Sesame Paste for Savory Dishes
- 1 cup toasted black sesame seeds
- tsp toasted sesame oil (optional)
All ingredients to a small food processor or high-speed blender and blend in increments for about 3-5 minutes. If you have a larger blender or food processor add more seeds. Blend, scrape the sides, and continue. Should go from whole seeds, to powder, to thick paste, to a smooth paste. Keep blending till desired consistency, I enjoy it on the thicker side. Optional: add sea salt to bring out more flavor and if making a sweet paste you can always add more honey.
I love eating this with apples and honey
Blended into a smoothie or with milk (soy milk being my favorite combo)
Black sesame latte yum!
Added to lactation treats to support milk producation
Asian inspired dishes like black sesame noodles or desserts like mochi.
