Sesame - Culinary file

Nutritional values (whole seeds) per 100 g

• Calories: 562
• Fibre: 6.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 21.6 g
• Fats: 49 g
• Protein: 18.6 g
• Rich in calcium, iron, mucilage, lecithin, potassium, vitamins B and E.

Storing sesame seeds
Hulled sesame seeds can turn rancid so it is best to keep them in a cool place.

A marriage of heart and mind
Sesame seeds consist of 50% oil, tahini, which is often used as a cooking oil. It is used worldwide in margarine and other fats. In numerous Middle Eastern countries, the seeds are pounded to a paste which is then used to flavour soups, stews and sauces. There are many breads and buns flavoured with sesame, which gives them an enticing aroma when they are taken out of the oven. The nutty-tasting seeds are used in Greece to make pâtés, cakes and cookies; in China, in traditional cakes and candies.

Using sesame seeds
toast sesame seeds in a dry non-stick pan for a few seconds to release all their flavour;

the seeds can also be toasted in a spoonful of oil, a bit of butter or better yet, in sesame oil to bring out all their taste and aroma.